REVIEW: Cruel World

He's still working, but not Furlong.

Three questons: First, who in their right mind thought that another horror film based around a faux reality show was an idea worth pursuing? Second, who in their right mind thought that the finished product was worth distributing? Finally, why do people continue to cast Edward Furlong in their wonky cinematic endeavors? These questions await anyone brave enough to tackle Kelsey T. Howard's savagely incompetent slasher Cruel World, a film so deeply pathetic that it's taken three years for anyone to give it the time of day. The picture concerns itself greatly with the exploits of Philip Markham (Furlong), a sloppy, heavy-lidded drunkard who stages a fake reality program as an outlet for his grossly misplaced rage. Problem is, Howard and company do nothing remotely interesting with the material, forcing the poor souls who rent this trash to endure a series of increasingly moronic set pieces involving swords, coffins full of goo, and animal evisceration. Additionally, the living, breathing stereotypes provided for our enjoyment are just that: stereotypes. Finding anyone to sympathize with is a truly daunting task, especially considering most of these horrible characters are self-serving, self-absorbed jerks in the first place. Furlong, meanwhile, gives a suitably sloven performance; the majority of his screen time is compromised of smoking, drinking, chewing scenery, and trying in vain to stay awake. It's fun to watch him wallow in obscurity, I suppose, but when your thoughts turn to Terminator 2 and American History X, a cool wave of inky sadness suddenly falls over you. Cruel World, I'm afraid, has arrived several years past its expiration date. Solid advice: rent My Little Eye or Series 7, instead. Not even Jaime Pressley in her underwear can save this one.

Recipe For Disaster: Joel Michaely + One Seriously Tired Premise + Someone Get Furlong Another Agent

The Silver Lining: You know what, I can't think of a single thing.

Cruel World is a complete and utter bust.