Totally Killer

Totally Killer tries to mingle horror with comedy and a dose of time travel, but the execution feels uneven. While it has its moments of charm, the film can’t decide if it wants to be a slasher or a lighthearted romp.

A Time-Traveling Slasher

In Totally Killer, we follow 17-year-old Jamie Hughes (Kiernan Shipka) as she finds herself inexplicably transported back to 1987 on the eve of the 'Sweet Sixteen Killer’s' return. Jamie, determined to prevent another murder in her hometown, must navigate the quirks of the past while meeting her mother, Pam (Olivia Holt), who has yet to experience the trauma that awaits. The film attempts to balance teen drama with slasher horror, offering a mix of nostalgia and modern commentary on the horror genre, albeit sometimes clumsily.

Performances Balancing Comedy and Horror

Kiernan Shipka carries the film as Jamie, though her character often oscillates between being a resourceful heroine and a caricature of teenage angst. Olivia Holt as Pam shines in her limited role, bringing a youthful energy that captures the essence of 1980s teen culture. However, some supporting characters, especially the male roles, feel underwritten, relegated to typical tropes rather than fleshed-out personalities. This imbalance leaves the audience craving more depth in their interactions, which is disappointing given the film's playful premise.

80s Vibe with Uneven Pacing

Nahnatchka Khan’s direction has a light touch that complements the comedic elements, but it often lacks the tension needed for a horror film. The visuals are a mixed bag—some scenes effectively capture the vibrant 1980s aesthetic, complete with colorful costumes and retro props, while others feel too polished, stripping away the grit of a horror vibe. The pacing stumbles, especially in the middle act, where the film seems to lose its momentum, making the time travel concept feel forced rather than fluid.

Nostalgia with Dips in Engagement

Watching Totally Killer is a bit like revisiting an old family album—there are fun moments, but you might also cringe at the awkwardness. The film tries to evoke nostalgia, but its attempts at humor don’t always land, leading to moments of boredom amidst the chaos. There’s an odd mixture of laugh-out-loud scenes and drawn-out sequences that disrupt the flow, leaving viewers checking their watches. It's not entirely unwatchable, but those looking for consistent thrills might find themselves frustrated.