Review: Fangoria’s ‘VFW’ is an Insanely Fun Bloodbath

fangoria VFW movie review SL
Stephen Lang as Fred Paras in the action/thriller/horror film, “VFW,” an RLJE Films release. Photo courtesy of RLJE Films.

This weekend will see the release of the latest Fangoria-produced film, VFW. Directed by Joe Begos (Bliss) and written by Max Brallier and Matthew McArdle, the stellar cast includes Stephen Lang (Don’t Breathe), William Sadler (Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey), Martin Kove (Cobra Kai), David Patrick Kelly (The Warriors), George Wendt (Cheers), and Fred Williamson (From Dusk till Dawn).

VFW follows a group of war vets who are hanging out in their beloved VFW post/bar when a young woman (Sierra McCormick as Lizard) is in desperate need of help. She has stolen a gang’s precious drug called Hype as revenge for the death of her sister and is in danger. After violently dealing with some of the drug-addled gang members, it becomes clear they have no choice but to see this fight to the end.

(L-R) Fred Williamson as Abe Hawkins, William Sadler as Walter Reed, Stephen Lang as Fred Paras, Sierra McCormick as Lizard, and Tom Williamson as Shaun Mason in the action/thriller/horror film, “VFW,” an RLJE Films release. Photo courtesy of RLJE Films.

Director Joe Begos has a very stylish approach to his films, and VFW is no exception. There is a distinct futuristic feel, especially in regards to the gang, that almost wanders into a post-apocalyptic, Mad Max-esque setting. The dark yet colorful lighting brought out the grittiness in a beautiful way and highlighted the well-orchestrated displays of brutality. There is no mercy to be found within VFW, as heads roll from the minute the two sides come together until the blood-soaked conclusion. The film is accompanied, and even elevated, by a phenomenal and effective soundtrack from Steve Moore (The Guest, Bliss).

(L-R) Travis Hammer as Boz and Dora Madison as Gutter in the action/thriller/horror film, “VFW,” an RLJE Films release. Photo courtesy of RLJE Films.

Of course, almost none of this would matter without the right cast, and are cult movie and TV fans in for a treat. Stephen Lang, who stunned horror fans with 2016’s Don’t Breathe, maintains a strong, commanding presence and is absolutely captivating to watch. William Sadler is the perfect comedic relief, even in the group’s worst of times. From the veterans’ side, including returning soldier Shawn played by Tom Williamson and Sierra McCormick, there is not a single disappointing performance to be found. The murderous gang, led by Boz, played by the magnetic Travis Hammer, was mostly portrayed in a more over-the-top, sometimes cheesy, way. The contrast in sides play well off each other, however the strong acting ability from the VFW side can overshadow the supporting gang members at times.

VFW fits perfectly with the Fangoria production label, brings several beloved stars to fight side-by-side, and delivers almost nonstop bloody fun. Horror fans should have no trouble finding a lot to love with this one.

VFW is available on February 14th, 2020, in select theaters, VOD, and Digital HD. Pre-orders available on iTunes.

Courtesy of RLJE Films.

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