Dark Match (2024) Wrestling, Gore, and a Twist Worth Tapping Out For

Dark Match (2024) has gone largely unnoticed, but that’s about to change. After a limited festival run and a behind-the-scenes sale strategy, the high-octane horror title is set to stream on Shudder starting January 25, 2025. When Mother of Movies first previewed this hard-hitting horror flick at the Fantasia Film Festival, it was under strict orders to keep its jaw-dropping twist under wraps, This review will honor that promise. No spoilers here, but rest assured, the experience is absolutely worth it.

Cast of Legends: Ogg, Jericho, Eklund, and Canning Shine

Dark Match’s cast is a powerhouse lineup that’s as diverse as it is fun to watch. It features Steven Ogg, known for his screen presence, alongside professional wrestler Chris Jericho, who brings authentic grit to his role. Michael Eklund’s chameleonic abilities are on full display, and Sara Canning’s nuanced performance rounds out the ensemble. Wrestling-themed films aren’t typically my go-to, but this cast’s chemistry and commitment make it hard to resist. Their combined energy fuels the film’s relentless pace and elevates it beyond mere genre novelty.

Backwoods Brutality: Blood, Guts, and Unrelenting Fun

Dark Match delivers all the ferocity you’d expect from a horror-wrestling mashup. Set against a grimy, backwoods backdrop, the film is a flashy showcase of ultra-violent cinema. It’s raw, gory, and undeniably intense. From its high-stakes cash match premise to the grisly confrontations, every punch, throw, and slam is packed with shattered bones. For those who revel in blood-soaked spectacle, Dark Match is a treasure trove of unique kills. Each fight sequence feels visceral, with a keen sense of pacing that never lets the momentum dip.

Karim Hussain’s Cinematic Slam: Every Punch Hits Hard

Much of the film’s intensity can be credited to cinematographer Karim Hussain, known for his work on Infinity Pool. Here, his talents are on full display. The in-your-face close ups of wrestling comes alive with immersive camera movements. Sharp angles and 4th wall broaching spray make every grunt and slam feel tangible.

One standout moment features a wrestler walking through a crowd of roaring fans. As boos echo around him, he spits in a man’s face, and instead of outrage, the man’s grin widens. It’s a moment that perfectly encapsulates the visceral thrill of live wrestling and the film’s electric atmosphere. From moments of jaw-dropping violence to quieter scenes drenched in unease, Hussain’s visuals keep you locked in and engaged.

Directed and written by Lowell Dean, fans of Wolf Cop will be thrilled to have him back behind the camera. This film delivers blood, and a smorgasbord of eclectic characters, each with unique stories.

Lubricabria

The characters include the formidable Mean Joe Lean (Steven Ogg), the lady in red, Miss Behave, and the American Sweetheart Kate the Great. There’s also the silent Enigma and the comedic duo Thick and Thin. A host of other costumed killing machines further contribute to the highly competitive spectacle of thrill kills.

Chris Jericho is an outstanding addition to this soon-to-be cult classic horror film. I watched Jericho in this role. Seeing him perform, especially after familiarising myself with his WWE career, makes it clear why he’s perfect for the part.

Dark Match successfully balances its serious tone, avoiding the over-the-top theatrics and verbose exchanges typical in professional wrestling. This focus is what makes it work. His portrayal of a cult leader commanding hundreds of followers cements his status as an icon. One of his henchmen Spencer (Michael Eklund) was awesome too.

Guests of Honor – Dark Match 2024

Dark Match is a must-see, blood-soaked, and, energetic film with a bonkers ending that suits it perfectly.

With a star-studded cast, relentless violence, and impeccable cinematography, Dark Match isn’t just a film, it’s an experience. It’s raw, dirty, and brimming with chaotic energy. Wrestling purists and horror hounds alike will find something to love here. With its Shudder debut scheduled for January 25th, 2025, Dark Match is primed to go.

Mother of Movies will return after January. They will provide an explanation for the film. We collected loads of details on our original watch. Join the conversation on Facebook.

• Writer-Director Lowell Dean
• Production Company DEPT.9 STUDIOS.

Cast of Dark Match

Miss Behave – Ayisha Issa
Mean Joe Lean – Steven Ogg
Enigma – Mo Jabari
Kate the Great – Sara Canning
Leader – Chris Jericho
Rusty – Jonathan Cherry

For 22 horror movies to add to your watchlist from Fantasia 2024, follow this link.

Love horror movies that are packed full of memorable kill scenes? Add these to your watchlist: Stream 2024 | Terrifer 3 | Melalomaniac and Guns Akimbo.

For Mother of Movies picks of Fantasia, follow this link.

The Teaser Trailer is Spoiler Free, Watch It Below

Where to Watch Dark Match

Use the link below to find the cheapest way to watch Dark Match, releasing to Shudder on January 25th, 2025.

“Dark Match” had its world premiere at the 2024 Fantasia Film Festival on July 21st, 2024.

Dark Match

Director: Lowell Dean

Date Created: 2024-07-21 12:36

Editor's Rating:
4