Written by: Michael Den Boer on June 30th, 2008
Release Date: USA, 2008
Production Company: Big Biting Pig Productions
Approximate running time: 94 minutes
Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 Anamorphic Widescreen
Language: English
Director: Steve Hudgins
Writer: Steve Hudgins
Cinematographer: Ron Elliot
Cast: Nick Faust, Steve Hudgins, Randy Hardesty, Jessica Cook, PJ Woodside, Tom Dolan
Synopsis: A serial killer escapes from a mental asylum and returns the home he grew up in as a child.
Maniac on the Loose is an interesting look into the mind of a serial killer. The plot is told a linear way that is similar to the style Quentin Tarantino uses in all of his films. This non linear way of storytelling that jumps between present time and the past greatly helps the plot being told in Maniac on the Loose. To reveal anything beyond the basic elements of the plot would take away from the films many layered twists that lead up to one bizarre conclusion. Visually director Steve Hudgins does a remarkable job with his limited resources.
The film has many stylish moments. The editing and pacing are nearly flawless. The cast is primarily made up unknown performers who are all very good in their respective roles. If there was one thing that I would change it would be toning down of a few of the performances which comes very close to falling into the over the top category. Some of the violence is drawn out and sadistic. Most of the kills are bloody. Overall Maniac on the Loose is refreshing take on the horror film genre at a time when the genre is in a lull and lacking in originality.
The DVD release for Maniac on the Loose comes with a anamorphic widescreen transfer and extras include a blooper reel (8 minutes), three deleted scenes and two trailers for the film. You can purchase the DVD from Big Biting Pig Productions website which can be found here.