Slaughterhouse Rulez: Rotten Tomatoes Score & Movie Review Rundown

Can a prestigious boarding school, steeped in tradition and privilege, truly withstand the horrors that lurk beneath the surface? Slaughterhouse Rulez, a 2018 horror-comedy, throws this very question into the heart of its narrative, promising a darkly humorous exploration of class warfare, environmental concerns, and the primal fear of the unknown.

The film, directed by Crispian Mills, plunges us into the hallowed halls of Slaughterhouse School, an elite English boarding institution with a history stretching back to 1770. This isn't just any school; it's a microcosm of the British class system, where young men from privileged backgrounds are groomed for leadership, all while navigating the treacherous waters of adolescence. But the idyllic facade is shattered when a fracking site near the school triggers a cataclysmic event, opening a sinkhole that unleashes something far more sinister than economic anxieties – ravenous, monstrous creatures.

The cast is a familiar and comforting presence for fans of British comedy, with Simon Pegg and Nick Frost reuniting, albeit in supporting roles, offering glimpses of the comedic brilliance that has made them household names. Asa Butterfield, as the film's protagonist, leads a younger cast, facing the horrors that begin to plague the school. Michael Sheen lends his talents, embodying a figure of authority in a role that provides a foundation for the story.

The film attempts to blend horror with comedy, a combination that has proven successful in the past, notably in films like Shaun of the Dead. However, Slaughterhouse Rulez's execution of this balance has been met with mixed reactions. Some critics have lauded the film's charm and its willingness to poke fun at the British class system, while others have found the humor lacking and the scares insufficient.

The core of the film's narrative revolves around the clash between the privileged students and the monstrous creatures, with the backdrop of the environmental controversy adding an extra layer of thematic complexity. The fracking site, a symbol of modern greed and disregard for the environment, serves as the catalyst for the chaos that ensues. This juxtaposition of themes, the struggle for survival with the backdrop of social and environmental concerns, allows for a more nuanced exploration of the film's central conflict.

The visual presentation of the creatures is crucial for any horror film, and Slaughterhouse Rulez employs practical effects to bring its monsters to life. However, the budget is more modest than some of the blockbuster horror movies.

The script grapples with themes of class disparity, environmental destruction, and the inherent brutality of the natural world. This offers fertile ground for social commentary, but whether the film succeeds in delivering on these complex themes is open to interpretation. Some reviewers believe the film attempts to make a satirical point about class warfare and the consequences of unchecked capitalism, while others felt it falls short of its ambitions.

The presence of well-known actors like Pegg and Frost is undoubtedly a draw. Their combined comedic talents have been showcased in iconic films. However, in Slaughterhouse Rulez, their roles are supporting ones, taking a backseat to the younger cast. This decision allows the younger actors to take center stage.

The film also attempts to capture the essence of the boarding school experience – the cliques, the rivalries, the traditions, and the pressures that shape young lives. By placing the monster element within this setting, the film aims to amplify the tension and the underlying social dynamics.

The film’s title itself is an intriguing play on words. Slaughterhouse immediately signals the horror element, while Rulez hints at the school's existing hierarchy, suggesting a world where the established order is about to be violently disrupted.

Ultimately, Slaughterhouse Rulez is a film that leaves a lasting impression, even if its execution is not flawless. It’s a horror film with a comedic sensibility, a coming-of-age story against a backdrop of monstrous threats, and a commentary on social inequality, all rolled into one. It’s a film that invites discussion and debate about its effectiveness, its messages, and its lasting impact.

The film is a product of British independent cinema, adding to the diverse cinematic landscape, offering an alternative to the more predictable genre fare.

Slaughterhouse Rulez is a film that tries to be many things at once – a horror movie, a comedy, a social commentary, and a coming-of-age story. This ambitious approach, while not entirely successful, makes for a unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience. The film provides a glimpse into the depths of British filmmaking, and the potential for those who enjoy a unique, interesting and thought provoking cinematic journey.

The narrative structure, the performances of the cast, and the film's aesthetic choices all contribute to the overall cinematic experience, making Slaughterhouse Rulez a film that, for all its imperfections, is ultimately memorable.