In 2011, after all these other movies have come and gone, does the world really need another entry into the sub-sub-genre of blood-lusting unknown invaders? Secuestrados makes a compelling argument that yes, maybe it does. Story-wise were on well-treaded ground here but the difference is in the fantastic cinematic technique: this film is composed of only ten or so unflinching long takes including a number of very extended split-screens. The bad guys come in the form of three balaclava'd savages, but unlike some of the other entries here they're not entirely two-dimensional. Committing crimes of this nature takes an emotional toll and not every villain is able to completely muffle their empathy, which helps to elevate this tale above the standard slasher fare. The intense, barbaric and often sexual violence is front and center from the first shot (wherein a bloody man is running through a field with a plastic bag over his head) to the last (which won't be spoiled here but oof). There is no refuge from it and the film seems to taunt you into not blinking over its tight 80-minute runtime. There are no shaky handheld shots or quick cuts to give you relief from the trauma, nor is there any comedy, meta-narrative, or cameos by Dennis from 'Always Sunny.' Just bleak, seemingly unending violence. Hug your loved ones close after this one.
Joe Sippy grew up in Chicago and now resides in Los Angeles. He enjoys corn dogs, rap music, and horror movies. On weekends you can find him in the ocean, surfing very poorly.
