User Reviews

"Chewed" from writer, director Mike Trebilcock is a throwback to the films of yester-year in both appearance and execution. The look of early horror and exploitation films, from a long gone era simply oozes from this production; for the most part. While there are questions and slight issues with the general story of the movie, none of that really matters. "Chewed" is one of those titles you simply watch to be entertained. You simply throw out your thinking brain and step aboard for the ride. Just as the general plot makes for an awesome opening sequence, that's about the only purpose of it considering the rest of the film could have been done without it. But who wants that right? Most films from that "calendar time" used crazy elements to simply fatten up the goose... so to speak. Actually, many still do today. The fact that the back-story of the ancient Gods got me all comfy in my chair, eagerly awaiting the rest of the film, simply means that Mike Trebilcock did his job well in baiting the hook. The opening and closing segments of "Chewed" really are the best parts, leaving most of the middle as simple filler. The intended look of the movie are really showcased in these two scenes, and handled very well. The rest, although by no means a failed attempt, simply don't stack up. However, even with that written it's safe to say I had one hell of a time watching. It's not every day a movie likes this comes across my desk, one both familiar yet refreshing. I am a big fan of those old school movies, and as such can't deny the power of nostalgia. "Chewed" is full of it. As hinted above, the technical aspects of "Chewed" really stop this film from being exceptional. For starters, the classic look, as showcased in the opening scenes, begin to crumble and appear as though it's only purpose becomes to hide the films poor technical elements. From a scene involving our "corporate a-holes" heading to a meeting, to many parts of that meeting itself, the film suffers from some very poor coloring choices. Shot by shot, the coloring and tones of the characters change back and forth, as the lighting, at times reduces these people to textbook "racoon eyed" blurs. Most of this could have been fixed with a simple hue adjustment during the edit, but were instead crushed down to what they have become. What really got me was the fact many of these shots could have been so easily fixed, or skipped altogether; which brings me to the overall length of this film. Yes. "Chewed" does feel a little long winded. Especially after that amazing start. A few minutes left out, dropped onto the cutting room floor, would have greatly benefited this movie. For example: The entire segment where the corporate baddies were walking up the stairs, and down the hall could have been cut. Simply starting the scene as they entered the office. After that, some small bits of the conversation between them, with our leading lady, could have been trimmed. Not only would this have left the film a mean lean machine, but would have solved a "lot" of the coloring issues. Then, some simple adjustments would have really made things work. Don't get me wrong, this is still a great film. I especially loved the "cheese" factor from the cast that fit right in with the style. And again, to kick that dead horse... the idea to make this a visual throwback was a great one. I just felt it could have been greater. That as they say is that. The opening scenes of "Chewed" will grab your attention, even if you're not a genre fan. After that, we simply have a good, but not great, indie film. Even knowing that, and already watching it, I would still purchase myself a copy if and when it becomes available. There really is a lot to like about this movie! I have two favorite scenes, the first being the neck break early in the film. The second? Maybe yours will be the same as mine. You'll have to watch to decide. -MC

Chewed

At the opening, it's easy to see that this story has legs. They take us (and Doctor Valdez)through the Lacandan jungle in Chiapas, Mexico. We are looking for an ancient Aztec relic and find the tomb which houses Tezcatlapulca after a wild ride through the jungle.

Six months later, Doctor Valdez has arranged a meeting with a group of businessmen who came begrudgingly to the university. The doctor had enticed the group with the prospect of them making tons of money with the knowledge the universities research will provide them. The mention of riches was a strong motivating factor for this group of greedy scofflaws. But Doctor Valdez has a hidden agenda. She has intimate knowledge of the nefarious activities of each member of this select group.

The story is moved along nicely by the score including some foreboding metal music on the good doctor's radio. Without revealing any spoilers, let's just suggest the viewer remember this is a short revenge film. Even on its last legs the film provides surprise and shock. One should also be prepared to enjoy lots of good music and a good dose of humour.

Scuttlebutt