I bought this on VHS expecting a goofy comedy along the lines of Bio-Dome, so the tone shift about halfway through just about gave me whiplash. But it's been growing on me.
First off, I love Buzz and Betty. Those two are the definition of relationship goals. The setting and premise is unique but not alien, making it an easy watch. The set design, camerawork, characters and dialog are all very colourful, and the actors all felt well suited to their roles. This movie is, above all else, competent, and I imagine this flavour of kitsch would be up a lot of people's alleys. I feel like in the right sphere, this movie could make a comeback.
The horror elements totally blindsided me. A scene where Buzz receives a prophecy from the ghost of King Kamehameha in typical 90s comedy fashion is quickly followed by a scene where his brother attempts to rape Betty and forces Buzz to watch. So this isn't exactly a fun summer romp to watch with the whole family. I thought a few of the more suspenseful scenes dragged on a bit too long, but if their goal was to foster a sense of unease, I suppose that certainly helped.
If you like oddball indie movies that aren't afraid to mix genres, I would recommend this if you can find it. It's definitely dated, but I feel like its sheer uniqueness is saving it from obscurity.
Like I said, the most convenient way for me to access this movie was to actually buy a VHS. I feel like Hula Moon should have enjoyed a longer shelf life, but at the same time, I can see why it hasn't.
First off, I love Buzz and Betty. Those two are the definition of relationship goals. The setting and premise is unique but not alien, making it an easy watch. The set design, camerawork, characters and dialog are all very colourful, and the actors all felt well suited to their roles. This movie is, above all else, competent, and I imagine this flavour of kitsch would be up a lot of people's alleys. I feel like in the right sphere, this movie could make a comeback.
The horror elements totally blindsided me. A scene where Buzz receives a prophecy from the ghost of King Kamehameha in typical 90s comedy fashion is quickly followed by a scene where his brother attempts to rape Betty and forces Buzz to watch. So this isn't exactly a fun summer romp to watch with the whole family. I thought a few of the more suspenseful scenes dragged on a bit too long, but if their goal was to foster a sense of unease, I suppose that certainly helped.
If you like oddball indie movies that aren't afraid to mix genres, I would recommend this if you can find it. It's definitely dated, but I feel like its sheer uniqueness is saving it from obscurity.
Like I said, the most convenient way for me to access this movie was to actually buy a VHS. I feel like Hula Moon should have enjoyed a longer shelf life, but at the same time, I can see why it hasn't.