YOU’RE NEXT

BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELL
SEPTEMBER 7, 2013

A perfect blending of horror and comedy, “You’re Next” is a prime example of the Adam Wingard we have come to know and love through his shorts in “V/H/S/2” and “The ABCs of Death.” Wingard produces dark comedy natural from the home invasion sub-section of the horror genre.
The film is half a throwback to classic horror specifications, half a present-day gore-fest complete with throat slashing and blender lobotomies. Setting this film apart, are the natural family roles divvied when the slashing begins along with one of the most influential female survivor performances ever witnessed in a horror film. Sharni Vinson plays the female survivor, Erin, whose headstrong nature and determination keep her the driving force of the film, all the while, her beauty never falters.

Reminiscent of “The Strangers,” with the animal-masked assailants, instead of coming off as a direct copy, “You’re Next” becomes more of a companion piece, highlighting the same overall arcs while remaining distinct in its own right. Although the twists are somewhat contrived and the gore leans slightly heavy-handed, and appreciate for the man that is Adam Wingard cannot be denied. A cameo from fellow horror director Ti West reminds of the influential collective built between these filmmakers, and only good can come from strong collaboration. Standing beside his first major feature release, after being dusted off a shelf at Lionsgate, what Wingard does next could define his future. In the horror genre, there’s little that I anticipate more than to see his future endeavors.