There are some films that need a traditional narrative structure in order to tell a successful story. If done right, then ambiguity can work. As an example, it’s questionable to many if David Lynch is successful at this, especially when it came to the third season of Twin Peaks. Some argue the ending of Psycho was too much explanation and casts the audience as dumb. However, if done incorrectly, ambiguity can come off as lazy like so many of the worst in the found footage sub-genre. Abrupt endings are utilized so that there’s no need for logic and that narrative structure can be used as an excuse. Pablo Parés’PUSSYCAKE is told through a traditional narrative structure but does lead to some WTF moments that aren’t exactly explained.

PUSSYCAKE is not just the title, but also the name of the female band in the movie. They play local bars and now have an opportunity for a gig in front of a record company. Their destination turns out to be deserted until they come face to face with zombie-like residents who like to vomit in people’s mouths. Yes, expect plenty of vomiting in PUSSYCAKE and it looks just as gross as it sounds.

The beauty here is that PUSSYCAKE is looking to have a bloody good time and is successful. Yes, we are aware of a missing scientist whose son uses his experiments to possibly open a deadly portal that is causing this infestation, but it also could be extraterrestrial. The movie lightly refers back to this scientist later in the film but doesn’t waste any time trying to make any sense of what’s going on. These girls want a record deal and know how to stay alive when the world is seemingly coming to an end.

Director Pablo Parés has made a name for himself in the genre in his native Argentina, with a filmography that presents a love of horror and tries to push the limit of absurdities. All his films have been primarily low budget, but that money goes a long way as the special effects are top-notch and gore sequences are impressive, even for those who have been raised on this stuff. He’s put together a movie where a group of women have amazing chemistry and are believable as friends. Their methods of survival are violent and fun to watch, even as one might gag at all the onscreen vomiting.

It’s questionable if this should be an alien movie, zombie movie, or viral outbreak movie. It’s kind of a blend of all three and is fun to watch. PUSSYCAKE isn’t a perfect movie, but it is an 80-minute bloodbath from beginning to end that doesn’t stop to take a breath.

PUSSYCAKE will release on VOD and Cinedigm’s horror streaming service Screambox on August 30.

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Jovy Skol

Jovy grew up loving all kinds of horror movies which is ironic because his parents hated them. CANDYMAN still scares the shit out of him and it doesn’t help that he lives in the Chicago suburbs. He loves venturing into lesser-known exploitation films of the 70s and being introduced to new movies. Along with movies, Jovy loves horror video-games and books, including comics. Some of his favorite franchises include SILENT HILL, A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET, and the RESIDENT EVIL games.

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