By Jacob Cameron

“Ice Cream Man” is a remake of the mid-90s chiller of the same name. This film received buzz due to its shocking red-band trailer. With this in mind, it lives up to the gory precedent, and then some. It’s was directed by Eli Roth; who’s reputation in horror films precedes him. Through films such as Cabin Fever, Hostel, and Thanksgiving. It tells the story of a small town going mad after a visit from the ice cream man. Unlike the rocket pop, these sweet treats turn the children into something evil.

Eli Roth, as a filmmaker, has had many ups and downs that are as deep and swift as a rollercoaster. However, his passion has radiated throughout a great deal of his projects; and that passion is evident in this film. Achieving an equal degree of dark scares and dark humor. Minus a few issues.

The gore that was evident in the aforementioned trailer is present and accounted for. At the risk of giving too much away, there are many creative uses of blood and guts used throughout. With a lot of creative kills to boot involving many school supplies. From the looks of things, there was a good amount of practical effects used throughout which is an admirable thing to see. 

The titular Ice Cream Man is played by Ari Millen, who does a great job and brings an off-putting vibe to the proceedings. The children do give good performances; with special mentions given to Charlie Zeltzer and Shiloh O’Reilly. Some of the dialogue is, agonizingly, of the times; with references to boomers and to politicians that are hardly relevant. But it’s largely a minority.

An issue to be found here is in some of the technical aspects. For one aspect, the movie is unnaturally bright. The day scenes, of which there are many, are so bright that it can become distracting. In another aspect, the movie has some bad looking CGI. For every moment of practical gore, there is a rather fake looking effect.

The film, for many in terms of likeability, will hinge on the ending. Once again, without spoiling anything, it is quite a dark ending that will leave many speechless and some disgusted. The ending contains a reveal that is legitimately stomach-churning. Where all hope is abandoned and anything that could be salvaged permanently destroyed. As hyperbolic as that statement may sound, it is true. Regardless of quality, an ending such as this one is admirable due to what is said could happen and what actually does happen.

Ultimately, this one could prove to be divisive; with fans and detractors in equal measure. The film is definitely not perfect; and for some, either having Eli Roth’s name attached or that trailer are a non-starter. But the film has its fair share of redeeming and admirable qualities in terms of its filmmaking. It’s a film that should be as chilly as a vanilla cone on a hot summer afternoon.

🌟 🌟 🌟 1/2 stars