Hell of a Summer at TIFF 2023 surprised me. Now, full disclosure—this flick was co-written and co-directed by Finn Wolfhard and Billy Bryk, who also star in it. So I was a little skeptical going in since they’re so young, and this is their first time directing. But let me tell you, these kids totally nailed the essence of 80s slashers while also putting their own modern spin on it. Hell of a Summer is a slasher comedy that explores the dynamics of a group of summer camp counsellors who find themselves in a life-or-death situation.

The film’s setting is Camp Pineway, where Jason, portrayed by Fred Hechinger (Butcher’s Crossing), returns for another summer at the ripe old age of 24. Jason’s enthusiasm for the camp is unparalleled, but it doesn’t make him popular among the other counsellors. When a dead body is discovered, the counsellors must figure out how to survive the night, leading to a series of events that are more humorous than horrifying. The film also stars Abby Quinn and Matthew Finlan, among others, each playing characters that embody specific horror archetypes.

One of the most notable aspects of Hell of a Summer is its decision to prioritize laughs over scares. While this might disappoint hardcore horror fans, it’s a choice that allows the film to explore the clichés and archetypes of the genre in a light-hearted manner. The kills in the film are not particularly memorable, often occurring off-camera, but the directors put thought into how the killer appears on screen, adding to the eerie atmosphere.

“One of the most notable aspects of Hell of a Summer is its decision to prioritize laughs over scares.”

The film’s characters are introduced just enough for audiences to pick their favourites before they start being picked off. The remaining characters carry the film well, playing their stereotypical personas just over-the-top enough to be amusing but not annoying. This self-reflexive approach to character development adds a layer of complexity to what could have been a straightforward slasher flick, and even though it does not always work, it is fun to watch when it does.

However, the film is not without its shortcomings. While it’s commendable that Wolfhard and Bryk don’t make themselves the focus of the film, the narrative could have benefited from more creative kills. The directors had an opportunity to be inventive, especially given the comedic tone, but they opted for more traditional, less impactful death scenes. For a genre that is known by the ways it tackles death, this is an incredible missed opportunity. 

Furthermore, the film’s retro vibe feels somewhat forced, with elements such as the characters watching VHS tapes in 2023 coming across as more of an affectation than a genuine homage to the genre’s roots. When trying to borrow so much from the likes of Friday the 13th, I would have hoped that it would have leaned more into the concept to create something truly unique or at least embraced the campy concept to go over the top.

The ensemble cast is a mixed bag (yes, I know, that term is overused), with some characters being more fleshed out than others. Fred Hechinger’s Jason stands out as a likable character, avoiding the pitfall of becoming a caricature. His nuanced portrayal adds depth to the film, making it easier for the audience to empathize with him. On the other hand, some of the other characters fall into stereotypical roles without much development, making them less engaging. I will say one thing is clear: these actors had great chemistry on screen, and if you were to tell me they were all friends before this film, I would believe you.

Hell of a Summer is a film that will likely divide audiences. For those looking for a traditional, scare-filled slasher, this may not be the film for you. However, if you’re open to a different take on the genre that plays with its conventions while adding a comedic twist, it’s worth a watch. It’s a breezy 88-minute romp that doesn’t reinvent the wheel but offers enough entertainment to keep audiences engaged.

While it may not be a standout in the crowded field of summer camp horror, it’s a decent debut for Wolfhard and Bryk, who clearly have a love for the genre. It will be interesting to see where they take their filmmaking careers from here.