Bright Burn (2019)

Directed by: David Yarovesky | 90 minutes | horror, science fiction | Actors: Elizabeth Banks, David Denman, Jackson A. Dunn, Abraham Clinkscales, Christian Finlayson, Jennifer Holland, Emmie Hunter, Matt Jones, Meredith Hagner, Becky Wahlstrom, Terence Rosemore, Gregory Alan Williams, Elizabeth Becka

What would happen if a super being like Superman didn’t grow up to be a righteous hero, but would rather see the whole world burn? ‘Brightburn’ plays with this idea and that has resulted in a special film. Think of a cross between ‘The Omen’, ‘Problem Child’, ‘Men Of Steel’ and ‘Slither’. This genre cocktail is entertaining from start to finish. Although this production was canned by David Yarovesky, the influence of James ‘Guardians Of The Galaxy’ Gunn is clearly felt. And that’s a good sign!

In ‘Brightburn’ you get to know Tori (Elizabeth Banks) and Kyle Breyer (David Denman). This couple desperately wants a child, but unfortunately their wish for children is not fulfilled. The couple’s lives change when a strange vehicle falls from the sky and punches a hole in the ground. There is a baby in this capsule. Tori and Kyle decide to raise the boy as their own son and don’t tell him about his parentage. That changes when it turns out that this Brandon (Jackson A. Dunn) is much stronger than his peers and has special powers. His parents also discover that their adoptive son has a dark side…

The greatest asset of ‘Brightburn’ is Dunn. This child actor is downright creepy in the role of Brandon. When his bad side comes out, he goes all out. Banks also proves that she can do much more than play in corny comedies. The blonde actress plays a strong role as a mother who loses her grip on and connection with her son. The interaction between her and Dunn is believable and empathetic. Denman is also strong as a father who watches his once sweet son transform into an antisocial monster.

In addition to the strong cast, the special effects are also worth mentioning. ‘Brightburn’ has a few nice raunchy scenes in which the influence of Gunn – who provided the screenplay for this film – is noticeable. At times this movie reminds me of his underrated superhero parody ‘Super’. Melodrama, horror and humor also go hand in hand here. The violence is absolutely not childish and nice and thick. This film doesn’t take itself too seriously and that makes for a nice atmosphere.

‘Brightburn’ is certainly exciting and compelling, but there is always a moment of perspective that ensures that it doesn’t become a heavy burden. The compact playing time of 90 minutes ensures that the pace is good. Recommended for fans of Gunn, evil children and horror! And who doesn’t love this holy trinity?