Review: Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon 2006

It’s remarkable how mixed the reviews for this film are! Those who like it hail it a masterpiece, while those who dislike it, consider it an utter failure at all that it attempts… However, there are more positive reviews than negative, and I, naturally, loved this movie. Done in a very unique “mockumentary”/ black comedy/slasher-spoof style, “Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon” may not be particularly scary, however it is not intended to be. But what it is, is a witty and cleverly humourous, deconstructing, parody of the typical slasher/serial killer film. It’s very well done, especially when it makes an ingenious and entertaining switch in style partway through.
“Behind The Mask..” is a bizarre black comedy set in world where famous “movie killers” like Michael Meyers, Jason Vorhees, and even Freddy Kreuger, are actually real, and Leslie Vernon aspires to be the next serial killer “star”. Leslie Vernon is a narcissistic psychopathic killer… but he’s also quite clever, even funny and charming. A journalist, Taylor Gentry and her two cameramen, Doug and Todd, decide to take on the absurdly misguided project of filming Leslie Vernon, to document his ascent into the ranks of the most infamous villains. Things begin with Leslie’s preparations, and the search for a young female virgin, to play the “role” of the potential survivor. Leslie clearly develops strong feelings for the one he chooses to be ‘The Virgin’, and as far as he is concerned, she’s like a sort of ‘test’, if he can kill her, then he will officially begin to consider himself “one of the greats”.
“Behind The Mask…” is a strange film, it’s very original in style but because it’s a spoof, it’s cleverly derivative in subject and story. The way this movie breaks apart the classic horror adages… it’s actually been said that this is a movie ‘tailor-made’ for horror-fans and that would totally explain the split in opinions. It’s one of those films that just isn’t made for everyone, bur, for those for whom it is made, there’s a LOT to appreciate.