"Scarecrows" is a straightforward story that incorporates recognizable tropes. The young, dumb kids on a quest, and the psycho killer. Add to it the macabre fascination of a creepy, yet familiar rural mainstay - the scarecrow. It lacks originality but that doesn't stop it from being entertainment.
The cast is great at creating likeable characters that add both canon fodder for the killer and protagonists that you root for. The acting is acceptable, although there is some recognized moments of inconsistencies in scene delivery. But still, the quality is good and the suspense is captivating.
The special effects are equally quality work. Practical, visceral moments of blood and horror create an almost "Wolf Creek" atmosphere. My only complaint is that the violence and horror seemed restrained a bit too much. I would have liked a little more gruesome and gore. Still the film does more than enough to entertain on that level as well.
Overall, "Scarecrows" is a cool, entertaining horror movie with slasher level thrills. The cinematography is excellent, the antagonist is dominating and intimidating. There are a few minor flaws, but nothing that hurts the experience that Stone offers up to horror fans. Check it out.