Genres: Slasher Horror | Horror | Thriller
Director: Adrian Langley
Starring:

• Simon Phillips as Owen Watson
• Michael Swatton as Oswald Watson
• Julie Mainville as Sophie
• Anne-Carolyne Binette as Jenna
• James Hicks as Mike
• Frederik Storm as Chris

Plot Summary

Butchers (2020) is a visceral and unsettling survival horror film that delves into the depraved lives of the Watson family, a clan of sadistic butchers residing in an isolated rural area. Their gruesome “tradition” involves abducting unsuspecting travelers and subjecting them to horrific acts of torture and violence.

The story begins with a chilling introduction to the Watson family’s merciless brutality, setting the tone for a relentless descent into chaos. The film’s central narrative unfolds as a group of four friends—Sophie, Jenna, Mike, and Chris—embark on a road trip that takes a nightmarish turn when their car breaks down in the countryside. Stranded and unaware of the danger, the group unknowingly wanders into the Watsons’ hunting grounds.

The Watson brothers, Owen and Oswald, orchestrate a terrifying game of cat and mouse, capturing the friends and dragging them into their nightmarish domain. With no one to rely on but themselves, the captives are forced to confront their own fears and limitations in a desperate bid for survival. Along the way, they uncover gruesome remnants of previous victims, hinting at the Watson family’s long and twisted history.

As tensions rise and the group’s unity fractures, their escape attempts push them to the brink of sanity and endurance. The Watsons’ twisted morality, sadistic games, and relentless pursuit create a claustrophobic atmosphere, culminating in a blood-soaked and harrowing finale.

Themes and Style

• Survival Horror: At its core, Butchers explores themes of survival against insurmountable odds, with characters forced to navigate both physical and psychological torment.
• Twisted Morality: The Watson family’s depravity raises questions about the nature of evil and how isolation can breed monstrous behavior.
• Classic Slasher Influences: The film channels the brutality and grim aesthetic of iconic slashers like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and The Hills Have Eyes, with an emphasis on gore and tension.

Cinematography and Atmosphere

Butchers employs bleak, desaturated visuals to reflect the desolation of the backwoods setting. The oppressive atmosphere is heightened by tight framing, shadow-heavy lighting, and moments of intense, graphic violence. The sparse, eerie soundtrack amplifies the feeling of isolation and impending doom.

Why Watch?

Butchers is a brutal and uncompromising entry into the slasher horror genre, perfect for fans of dark, unflinching tales of survival. With its mix of psychological terror, graphic violence, and relentless pacing, it offers a raw and intense cinematic experience that sticks with you long after the credits roll.

Viewer Discretion: This film contains graphic scenes of violence, torture, and gore. It is recommended for mature audiences only.

Runtime: 93 minutes
Release Date: January 12, 2021 (Canada)
Rating: Not Rated