"The Flood," a heart-pounding alligator attack film intertwined with a violent prison-break thriller, delivers a jaw-dropping spectacle reminiscent of the iconic scene in "Jaws" where Robert Shaw's character meets a terrifying end. Set in a Louisiana police station during a hurricane, the movie fearlessly serves up gruesome human-torso-meets-jaws moments, transforming into a slasher movie with a ferocious bite.
The alligator thriller genre has long been associated with "Jaws" imitations, often featuring the reptiles crawling out of unexpected places. However, "The Flood" distinguishes itself by blending schlocky entertainment with a lively narrative. From its opening sequence, where unsuspecting strangers fall victim to a relentless gator, the film promises to deliver body-munching scenes with the intensity of pornography. The digital alligators, though mostly rendered with convincing detail, present a gruesome innovation in their portrayal of head and torso consumption, complete with a chilling wash of digital blood spatter.
The plot unfolds as four colossal 500-pound alligators infiltrate the Lutree Sheriff's Department, a fortified concrete structure where most of the story takes place. Simultaneously, the station plays host to a group of dangerous criminals en route to another prison, leading to a tense standoff when their accomplices launch an audacious assault to free them. The scenario is reminiscent of John Carpenter's "Assault on Precinct 13" and provides a gripping backdrop that elevates the movie beyond mere alligator mayhem.
The film's first scenes showcase a taste of the impending carnage as a couple of unlucky souls seek refuge in an abandoned house. Within moments, they encounter one of the monstrous alligators, and the result is a visceral and gruesome encounter that sets the tone for what's to come. From here on, "The Flood" hurtles forward like an unrelenting current, as the alligators unleash their ferocity on anyone who dares to cross their path.
One of the film's greatest strengths lies in its ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats throughout. The expertly crafted suspense builds like a crescendo, amplified by the claustrophobic setting of the police station. The looming threat of the storm outside further compounds the anxiety, as the protagonists find themselves besieged by both natural and unnatural forces.
The alligators themselves are brought to life through seamless digital effects that enhance their terrifying presence. Their movements are frighteningly realistic, making every encounter with them a pulse-pounding experience. Additionally, the filmmakers have not shied away from showcasing the brutality of the alligators' attacks, adding a level of visceral intensity that horror aficionados will relish.
In the midst of this aquatic terror, "The Flood" introduces a compelling sub-plot involving a group of ruthless criminals attempting a daring prison break. These stone-cold killers, led by menacing performances from Mike Ferguson and Randall J. Bacon, add an extra layer of unpredictability to the proceedings. Casper Van Dien's portrayal of a morally conflicted inmate provides a touch of humanity amidst the chaos, as his bond with the determined sheriff, played by the capable Nicky Whelan, injects a glimmer of hope into their desperate situation.
The film's unpretentious direction by Brandon Slagle keeps the focus on the raw suspense and gory action, resulting in a gritty and authentic experience for the audience. While "The Flood" doesn't strive for profound storytelling, it excels in delivering the thrills that fans of the alligator thriller sub-genre crave.
"The Flood" might not revolutionize the genre, but it stands out as a well-executed and adrenaline-pumping entry that captivates with its sharp teeth and gripping narrative. So, if you're in the mood for a heart-racing, teeth-clenching ride into the jaws of terror, "The Flood" promises to immerse you in an alligator-infested world where survival becomes the ultimate challenge.
The Flood (2023) - info
- Release date: 29 April 2023
- Genre: Horror, Thriller
- Director: Brandon Slagle
- Writer: Chad Law, Josh Ridgway
- Stars: Casper Van Dien, Nicky Whelan, Louis Mandylor