Dark Harvest has one thing that elevates it above the usual fodder and crop out with its originality. The world in which created by writers Michael Grilio and Norman Partridge and helmed by director, David Slade (Hardy Candy; 30 Days of Night) to create their vision is one that never falters and holds its own until its brutal conclusion. 

Set In a Midwestern town, where its residents are trapped in a bloody ritual that pits their teenage boys in a Lord of the Flies, Battle Royale in order to sacrifice the mythical Sawtooth Jack. The prize on offer in their sacrificial bid for freedom is the town’s highest accolade and the promise of a rich harvest the following year. 

At the heart of the movie is Richie Shepard (Casey Likes), a delinquent who has rebelled against the system since his older brother previously vanquished the fabled creature. Harried by his upbringing and forced onto a path towards a truth that he may not be able to handle, Richie is accompanied by a small group amongst his flock and a stranger to the town, Kelly (Emyri Crutchfield) they must take on the barbaric formalities and unearth the horrifying secrets the town has kept buried all this time.

The Prognosis:

In many ways, this feature happily tows the line of predictability with the outsiders, the only hope to rise up against the evil oppressors. Authoritative figures such as parents, law officials, and other unlikely towns’ representatives will either stand in their way or refuse to lift a finger to help. What sets it apart is that Dark Harvest has a strong identity and the mythology, albeit a harrowingly dark enterprise, is enough to shake you to the roots, and leave you feeling hollow by its bleak outlook.

• Saul Muerte 

Dark Harvest is currently streaming on PRIME.