Watch The Roost

The 2005 horror film The Roost, directed by Ti West, tells the story of four friends on a road trip through the rural countryside. They become stranded due to car trouble and seek shelter for the night in a secluded rundown farmhouse, only to discover that they are not alone. The movie stars Tom Noonan, Karl Jacob, Vanessa Horneff, and Sean Reid.

As the friends settle down for the night, they hear strange noises coming from the barn, and then the power goes out. Suddenly, the situation takes a dark turn as they are attacked by a swarm of vicious bats. The foursome eventually realizes that the bats are not ordinary animals and are controlling the other animals on the farm, causing them to become crazed and deadly.

The film is shot in a retro style, using grainy film stock and a color palette that emulates the look of 1970s horror movies. The director also employs a variety of techniques to create a sense of unease, including jump scares and eerie sound effects. The Roost is an homage to classic horror films, such as Night of the Living Dead and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and it successfully captures the same sense of dread and terror.

One of the standout elements of The Roost is the creatures themselves. The bats are truly terrifying, with their glowing red eyes, razor-sharp teeth, and an insatiable thirst for blood. The film uses practical effects to create these creatures, and the result is both convincing and disturbing. The make-up department deserves particular praise for the work they did in designing the bats and the various other animals that the bats control, including cows and dogs.

The film also features an impressive soundtrack, with a mixture of original compositions and classic rock tracks. The opening credits set the tone with a pounding drumbeat and guitar riff, which is reminiscent of the work of John Carpenter. The music is used effectively throughout the film to build tension and create a sense of unease.

The performances by the cast are solid, with Tom Noonan standing out as the grizzled farmer who warns the group about the dangers lurking on his property. Noonan has a long history in the horror genre, having appeared in films such as Manhunter and The Monster Squad, and his presence adds a sense of credibility to the film. Karl Jacob and Vanessa Horneff also give strong performances as the two leads, struggling to survive against impossible odds.

Despite its low budget and limited release, The Roost is a highly effective horror film that succeeds in creating a sense of terror and dread. Director Ti West would go on to make a name for himself in the genre, directing other indie classics such as House of the Devil and The Innkeepers. The Roost is a must-see for fans of classic horror films, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who dares to watch it.