Despite a few brief bright spots, *’The Blackening'* doesn't offer much to engage with. It’s fortunate that the filmmakers kept the movie under 90 minutes; otherwise, it would have felt like an even bigger slog. Even so, there isn't enough here to really hold your attention. The comedy is arguably its best feature—though it’s not particularly hilarious—some of the conversations (which were reportedly improvised) …

A collection of truly awful people—bigoted beyond belief—embark on a journey while feigning camaraderie. Violence and darkly humorous situations unfold; or perhaps it was not humor at all, but rather an expression of prejudice and brutality. Steer clear of this.

A group of friends, each carrying their own set of relationship problems, gather at a remote cabin after a decade apart. Following a quick look around, they discover a board game that demands their full focus; otherwise, a crossbow will eliminate them one by one. They are all initially terrified, particularly as two of them are quickly removed from the game—perhaps they had some insight into what was coming—but event…

Tim Story's “The Blackening” distinguishes itself from standard horror movies; it’s a comedic send-up of the genre with a sharp point. The insightful and witty story crafted by co-writers Tracy Oliver and Dewayne Perkins incorporates relevant social observations regarding stereotypes and what it means to be "black," which provides this clever satire with an unusual and refreshing angle. It creates discomfort, is exce…