‘CHOP’ (2010)

Actor / producer / Troma alumni / “Deadgirl” and “Fetch” writer, Trent Haaga has finally decided to put on his Director’s cap for “CHOP”. A blacker than black comedic debut from a guy who’s name has become synonymous with the phrase, “WTF?”. “CHOP” is one of those films that are hard to pigeonhole. It’s mean-spirited and funny, gorey and smart, stylistic and raw… These things shouldn’t be able to exist on the same plains of existence, yet Trent balances them very well in his first outing.

We are introduced to a young couple that appear to be upstanding citizens, but worlds collide as their duplicitous natures are exposed by a mysterious stranger who has been wronged by the husband, (played to perfection by Will Keenan). That’s really all I can share about the film without ruining any surprises. This movie thrives on twists and turns that the viewer has no hope of expecting and finishes off with one of the most awesome finales ever committed to film.

The ball starts rolling as soon as the lights go up, and it doesn’t stop until the end credits are rolling. You are slammed with brutality, wit, twists and rising tension at breakneck speeds throughout the film’s running. Most of the time this works for the movie, at some points it works against it.

It’s very difficult to criticize this film in a negative light without nitpicking it. But in the interest of armchair directors everywhere, I will try to entertain you: This is an independent film and does suffer from some of the typical downfalls of low budget flicks at times. Both the acting and camera work quality act as a roller coaster. In some scenes they meet the highest expectation, while in others they fall quite short. But those are my only critiques, and are likely more due to time constraints (budget = time) than they are to Trent’s prowess as a director or the talent of cast and crew.

Glints of brilliance are plastered all over this film, and I think it is more prevalent in the “style” in which it was put together. Haaga shows a mastery when it comes to transitions and setups. The overall “feel” of the film is unique, providing the viewer with a fun, hip ride into a very dark world. The story (written by Adam Minarovich) is very solid and graces us with some amazing moments of dialogue.

At the end of the day, this movie is hellishly fun, and a must-see for fans of the 90′s Tarantino / Kevin Smith style of storytelling. Despite it’s flaws, “CHOP” is a cult classic in the making.

This film has not been released.