Horror Movie Review: Coffintooth (2024)

Written and directed by Matt Cloude, Coffintooth is a throwback slasher horror with a strong whiff of intentional cheese about it. It’s silly, but also very violent and grim, and I found myself thoroughly charmed by it. Especially as Halloween does play a prominent part.

In a way, it’s a film that combines two different eras of horror. On the one hand, we have classic slasher elements and tropes blended with a touch of hillbilly horror, and on the other, a modern look at trauma via a protagonist with depth.

Parker, played wonderfully by Anna Clary, is a layered character and that makes her so much easier to root for. She, alongside her friend, Kimmy (Angel Nichole Bradford), and more, are up against it though. Coffintooth is on the loose and it’s Halloween.

Cue plenty of violence, gore, and nudity, all which makes Coffintooth a ton of fun to watch. It certainly has more to offer, and a litany of characters help move the plot along at a snappy pace, but when all is said and done, it’s red stuff being splashed around so liberally that makes the film memorable.

It’s low budget and that shows throughout, but the passion to deliver the goods makes it far easier to overlook. It has a grubby feel, with a tone that matches films like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and The Hills Have Eyes. Albeit with a bit of tongue in cheek silliness to things. The opening section of the film, which will have gorehounds hooked, sets the mood nicely.

I don’t think Coffintooth is about to be the next big breakout killer, but I do think viewers will remember the character afterwards. Especially as, like all good villains, Coffintooth has someone strong to face off against. A final girl who is more than your average final girl, and the last part of the film, which involves the legendary Camille Keaton as Coffintooth’s mother, has her star truly shining.

There’s nothing special about the film and it won’t change your world, but it will entertain. Provided you’re willing to see it for what it is, a low budget, gory slasher throwback with some creative ideas around characters.

It is a tight 76-minutes, and that also makes it so much more palpable. Grab some popcorn, a few beverages (alcoholic ideally), a friend or two, and enjoy violence. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself caring about the main characters that little bit more.