Totally Killer: A Fun and Surprisingly Sweet Genre Mash-Up
Totally Killer is a film that can be best described as a unique blend of several different movies. It draws inspiration from iconic films like Back to the Future, Halloween, and Scream, all while maintaining a sense of self-awareness similar to The Final Girls and the Happy Death Day movies. Although it may seem like a familiar mix of ingredients, the script by David Matalon, Sasha Perl-Raver, and Jen D’Angelo injects enough heart and humor to keep the film from feeling stale. While it may not become a classic in its own right, Totally Killer is a fun choice for a spooky night in during the Halloween season.
The film revolves around Jamie, played by Kiernan Shipka, who unintentionally becomes the Marty McFly of the story. Jamie is a rebellious teenager with overprotective parents, brilliantly portrayed by Julie Bowen and Lochlyn Munro. Their paranoia stems from a dark past, as they were in high school when their friends were gruesomely murdered one Halloween. When the Sweet Sixteen Killer resurfaces in 2022, Jamie finds herself being targeted. Seeking safety, she stumbles upon a time machine that transports her back to 1987 using cheesy, endearing graphics.
This unplanned journey leads to a clash of Gen Z and Gen X sensibilities, and Totally Killer explores the expected beats of this generational divide. Jamie cringes at the racism and misogyny of the ’80s, and the film cleverly subverts some expectations, such as Jamie’s unaffected reaction to pot brownies due to the lower potency of ’80s weed. While the film’s observations about the generational divide may not be sharp enough to draw blood, it manages to keep viewers engaged with its brisk pacing and sprinkling of violence.
The time-travel aspect of the film is handled with a light touch, accompanied by cheerful antics. In the present, Jamie’s tech-savvy best friend Amelia, played by Kelcey Mawema, works on fixing the time machine to bring Jamie back home. In the past, Lauren, Amelia’s mother from the future, played by Troy L. Johnson, tackles the same task. Both characters are surprisingly nonchalant about the situation, considering their roles in inventing time travel. The plot mechanics of time travel work best if not scrutinized too closely, but they add urgency to Jamie’s quest to alter the timeline.
While Totall Killer may not be an emotional roller coaster, it does find a beating heart in the evolving bond between Jamie and Pam (Olivia Holt), her mother’s younger self. At first, Jamie is horrified by Pam’s mean-girl persona, but as the adventure progresses, Jamie finds herself trying to protect the very person she’ll later disregard. Shipka’s portrayal of Jamie is charming, seamlessly transitioning between badassery and heartfelt sincerity. Holt adds vulnerability to Pam, allowing us to glimpse the caring woman she will become.
Their burgeoning friendship adds a layer of wholesomeness to Totally Killer, despite the bloodletting, teen hookups, and party scenes. It is a film that may even inspire viewers to call their moms and express their love. Although the jokes may not always hit their mark and the kills may lack memorability, the film’s heart and the chemistry between the characters make it easy to root for their success.
In conclusion, Totally Killer is a fun and surprisingly sweet genre mash-up that pays homage to classic films while infusing them with a modern twist. It may not break new ground, but it delivers an enjoyable viewing experience with its blend of comedy, horror, and time-travel elements. Whether you’re a fan of ’80s nostalgia or looking for an entertaining Halloween movie, Totally Killer is worth a watch.