[Film Review] Are Millennials Killing Freddy? (2022)

ReviewFilm ReviewHorror
Written By Melissa Cox / Contributor

At the heart of the Nightmare On Elm Street films is a question - how can you defeat a foe as uniquely dangerous as Freddy Krueger? Freddy won't just stab, slash or chainsaw a victim - he can get inside your very subconscious, probing your deepest fears and bringing them to hideous life. And while you might be able to outrun or evade a Leatherface or a Shape, there's no escaping the need to sleep.

The beleaguered teens of Elm St films have tried a wide variety of methods to battle Krueger whilst staying conscious: survival guides, gallons of coffee, group therapy, facing their fears, and confronting the disturbing legacy and lasting ramifications of past child murders in their hometown.

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Whilst these techniques had their merits, Andrew Jara's Are Millennials Killing Freddy? proposes that the greatest weapon against this particular menace could be internet-age entertainment and streaming services. The debate about the damage VOD may be doing to cinema box office may rage on, but there's no denying that the lure of a bingeable series can do more to stave off drowsiness than a 6-pack of Red Bull. 

In the film a potential victim (Pricilla Rios), wiles away the early hours watching TV, texting and playing video games, blissfully unaware that Freddy's waiting to pounce as soon as she falls asleep - and unknowingly exposes Kruger’s major weakness - he’s basically useless when you’re awake.

Are Millenials KIlling Freddy? is a funny and charming send-up of the Nightmare franchise. Excellent costume and lighting give the short a real Elm St feel, and Dion Lewis is an entertainingly quiptastic Krueger. It's a well-executed comedy short that I'd recommend to any fans of the franchise. Welcome to full-time prime time, Freddy!

You can watch Are Millennials Killing Freddy? now on YouTube!

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