It's been a long time since I did a movie review.

Tucker and Dale Vs Evil is a horror comedy from 2011. A group of college teens assume a couple of good natured hillbillies are horror movie killers. Think Deliverance, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and Friday the 13th.

I don’t want to spoil the movie, and some of the best gags are in the trailer, but to give just one example. Tucker is cutting a tree with a chainsaw when he accidentally saws through a beehive. He goes running away, swinging the saw wildly, and the teens assume he’s trying to kill them. A misunderstanding is made worse when one of the teens accidently kills himself while running away.

I first heard of the movie via a list of “heartfelt horror movies” and it definitely is that. The messages of not judging by appearances, and of having the confidence to assert yourself don’t feel as cringe, forced, and insincere as that sounds. And despite having horror elements, the film does have a feel good ending that feels earned.

The film isn’t perfect. I could list minor plot issues or jokes that fall flat, but that would be nit picking. I feel I should also praise the leads. Tucker and Dale have good chemistry, and I did buy the romance between Dale and Anne.

While I wouldn’t call it a classic by any means, it’s an enjoyable film and one that makes for great halloween viewing. So I recommend it.

At time of writing, it’s available on YouTube for free, albeit with the end credits missing.