The Hunt
Movie Trailer
Release Date
March 13, 2020
Genre
Action, Horror, Thriller
Cast & Crew
- Betty Gilpin as Crystal Creasey
- Hilary Swank as Athena Stone
- Ike Barinholtz as Staten Island
- Wayne Duvall as Don
- Ethan Suplee as Gary
- Emma Roberts as Yoga Pants
- Glenn Howerton as Richard
- Amy Madigan as Ma
Director
Craig Zobel
Other Movies Director is Known For
- Compliance (2012)
- Z for Zachariah (2015)
- Great World of Sound (2007)
Producer
- Jason Blum
- Damon Lindelof
- Craig Zobel
Writer
- Damon Lindelof
- Nick Cuse
Budget
$14 million
Production Company
- Blumhouse Productions
- White Rabbit Productions
- Universal Pictures
Running Time
90 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
R
Content Advisory
- Strong violence and gore
- Language throughout
- Some drug use
- Intense action sequences
Movie Story
The Hunt is a provocative action-thriller that blends dark satire with intense action, centered around a deadly game of survival. The film begins with twelve strangers waking up in a remote location, gagged and disoriented. They soon discover that they are being hunted for sport by a group of wealthy elites led by Athena Stone (Hilary Swank). The hunted are all chosen based on their perceived political beliefs, in what is meant to be a commentary on the polarization of American society.
Among the hunted is Crystal Creasey (Betty Gilpin), a seemingly ordinary woman who quickly proves to be a formidable opponent. As the others are systematically killed, Crystal begins to turn the tables on her hunters, using her wits and survival skills to pick them off one by one. The film’s narrative is driven by intense action sequences and a twisted sense of humor, as Crystal’s true nature and capabilities are gradually revealed.
The story culminates in a brutal showdown between Crystal and Athena, where the lines between hunter and prey blur. The film explores themes of class warfare, political extremism, and the consequences of dehumanization, all while delivering relentless action and shocking twists. The Hunt challenges viewers to question their own assumptions and biases, using its over-the-top premise as a lens through which to examine societal issues.
Special Effects
The special effects in The Hunt are utilized to enhance the film’s visceral and violent action sequences. The film makes extensive use of practical effects, particularly in its depiction of gore and combat, which adds to the intensity and realism of the survival scenarios. The action is fast-paced and brutal, with effects that emphasize the high stakes and danger of the hunt.
Box Office Performance
The Hunt grossed approximately $16 million worldwide, with its release being somewhat impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the controversy surrounding its premise. Despite this, the film gained a strong following and was praised for its dark humor, sharp commentary, and Betty Gilpin’s standout performance.
Filming Locations
- New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
Notable Quotes
- “War is the failure of diplomacy.” – Crystal Creasey
- “It wasn’t real.” – Crystal Creasey
- “You don’t believe anything you’re saying.” – Athena Stone
Behind-the-Scenes
The Hunt was initially delayed due to controversy surrounding its premise, which involves political satire and the depiction of violence in a highly polarized context. The film was produced by Blumhouse Productions, known for its low-budget, high-concept horror films. Director Craig Zobel and producer Damon Lindelof sought to create a film that would provoke discussion and challenge audiences with its biting satire. Betty Gilpin’s performance as Crystal was widely praised, adding depth to the film’s commentary on survival and the human condition.
Awards
- Nominated for the Critics’ Choice Super Award for Best Actress in an Action Movie (Betty Gilpin)
Final Verdict
The Hunt is a bold and divisive film that combines action, horror, and satire to deliver a sharp critique of modern society. With its intense action sequences, dark humor, and thought-provoking themes, the film offers a unique take on the survival genre. Betty Gilpin’s performance anchors the film, making it a must-watch for fans of action-thrillers with a provocative edge. While not for the faint of heart, The Hunt is an engaging and thrilling exploration of the extremes of human behavior.
IMDb Rating
6.5/10