Among Friends (2012) – We Dare You To Play This Game

Among Friends is Danielle Harris‘ full-feature directorial debut, and what a debut.

First, so you know what’s what, the film is about a group of friends who get together for an ’80s-themed murder mystery dinner party. Since this is a horror film, I don’t think I’ll spoil anything by telling you that murder soon becomes something more than a “theme” at this party.

Written by, and starring, Alyssa Lobit, Among Friends dives deep into the sins that can develop, permeate, and destroy relationships among friends. Although it’s similar, the tale is a refreshing take on the seven deadly sins that the horror genre loves so much to exploit.

From my perspective, a little bit Saw, a little bit Hostel, a little bit Texas Chain Saw Massacre, and a smidgen of Clue, Among Friends is a witty thriller that grabs you by the balls and won’t let you go… and when it does, you’ll be left with Blue Balls.

What I truly like about the film is that it doesn’t shove a moral agenda down your throat, even though morality is what’s at the heart of Among Friends. Deviant acts are presented, as they have to be, but the film also suggests that friends shit on each other once in a while and you can either live with it or get out. It’s interesting how the film also subtly asks the audience to decide what acts are punishable. But, the most important lesson presented is the one of speaking up and doing something — if something is so fucking wrong that it bleeds black, then you gotta say or do something.

The Verdict:

Among Friends is perfect viewing with friends during the Halloween Season. I watched it alone and literally laughed out loud during certain scenes... and I rarely do that even when watching a full-fledged comedy. If you watch with friends, there's certain to be a conversation afterward about what you and your friends have done behind the others' backs. And if you're lucky, there won't be any bloodshed.