An Overlooked Grindhouse Thriller Gem Has a New Streaming Home (& It’s Absolutely Wild)

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Instead of most other genres, horror fans often gravitate towards lesser-known and undervalued masterpieces. One such gem from the past decade has recently become available for streaming. It’s worth noting that budget constraints don’t necessarily hinder horror movies: a focus on ambiance, using newcomers in the cast, and shorter lengths can create an effective setup for fear. Moreover, if you aim for the unusual and generously include blood, a significant portion of the fright factor is already achieved.

An illustrative instance that didn’t make a significant impact but warrants greater recognition is the film “68 Kill,” directed by Trent Haaga. This production features Matthew Gray Gubler, a seasoned actor from “Criminal Minds,” portraying an ordinary, timid character. The movie carries a Tarantino-esque Grindhouse horror flavor with a distinctly brutal edge, possibly influenced by Haaga’s past collaborations with Troma. It has recently been added to the horror streaming service, Shudder, this month.

68 Kill – A Chaotic Night of Crime, Corruption, and Carnage

The movie revolves around Chip (Gray Gubler), a humble sewer worker trapped in an abusive relationship with Liza (AnnaLynne McCord), a flamboyant prostitute who exploits him financially. Liza devises a scheme to steal $68,000 from their landlord, and predictably, things go awry as the night unfolds, leading to abductions, murders, encounters with a twisted redneck gang. In essence, it’s like a Grindhouse version of John Wick, but with an untrained protagonist who finds himself battling the seamiest elements of society that wouldn’t seem out of place in a Rob Zombie horror flick. Here’s the trailer: [Insert Trailer Link]

The movie scores a commendable 67% on Rotten Tomatoes, considering its controversial theme. Even the skeptical critics acknowledge that “68 Kill” is an enjoyable watch, often described as gritty or provocative. It’s definitely not suitable for the sensitive viewers, but if you’re aware of what to expect, it delivers well.

In other places, Shudder has recently included the thought-provoking psychological thriller titled “Swallow“, which stands out among recent releases for its creativity and unsettling nature. With a 87% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, this chilling narrative about a woman being consumed by obsession provides an outstanding showcase for Haley Bennett’s exceptional acting skills. It rivals “Black Swan” in terms of its intensity.

If you’re in search of some wild animal-themed movies, Shudder has added “Cujo” by Stephen King, “Lake Placid”, and the rather questionably good “Orca” to their collection just for July. So don’t delay, as your chance to watch this unusual triple feature is running short!

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2025-07-22 02:09