Hell of a Summer Movie Review (2023): A Twisted Horror Comedy Worth Watching?
Release Year: 2023
Genre: Horror, Comedy, Slasher
Directors: Finn Wolfhard, Billy Bryk
Starring: Finn Wolfhard, Billy Bryk, Fred Hechinger, D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai
Overview: A Fresh Take on Slasher Horror
Hell of a Summer (2023) is a horror-comedy slasher film that blends bloody kills with dark humor. Directed by Stranger Things star Finn Wolfhard and Billy Bryk, the movie pays homage to classic ’80s slashers while adding a modern twist.
Plot Summary (No Major Spoilers)
Set in the late 1980s, a group of camp counselors at a summer retreat find themselves hunted by a masked killer. As bodies pile up, the survivors must uncover the killer’s identity before they become the next victims. The film balances gory horror with satirical comedy, making it a fun ride for genre fans.
What Works in Hell of a Summer?
✅ Strengths
✔ Nostalgic ’80s Vibe – The film perfectly captures the aesthetic of classic summer slashers like Friday the 13th and Sleepaway Camp.
✔ Dark Humor & Witty Dialogue – The comedy doesn’t undercut the horror but enhances the absurdity of the kills.
✔ Strong Performances – Finn Wolfhard and Billy Bryk deliver fun, self-aware performances.
✔ Creative Kills – Gore fans won’t be disappointed; the kills are brutal yet entertaining.
❌ Weaknesses
✖ Predictable Storyline – If you’ve seen slashers before, the twists won’t shock you.
✖ Uneven Pacing – Some scenes drag before the action picks up.
✖ Underdeveloped Side Characters – Not all counselors get enough depth.
Is Hell of a Summer Worth Watching?
Verdict: 7.5/10 – A fun, bloody homage to ’80s slashers with great humor, but not groundbreaking.
Who Will Enjoy It?
🔪 Fans of Tucker & Dale vs. Evil and The Final Girls
🔪 Viewers who love meta-horror with comedy
🔪 Anyone craving a throwback to classic summer camp slashers
Final Thoughts
Hell of a Summer doesn’t reinvent the genre, but it’s an entertaining, self-aware horror-comedy with solid kills and laughs. If you love slashers with a comedic edge, this is a must-watch!
Where to Watch?
Available on Amazon Prime Video, VOD, and Blu-ray.