Kill Her Goats (2023), written and directed by Steve Wolsh, arrives as a bold yet defiantly campy entry in the modern slasher genre. Shot on Cape Cod in October 2015 and released across 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and VOD in March 2023, the film follows Audra (Arielle Raycene) as she moves into her dream home, Tupp House, in the fictional town of West Craven. What begins as a peaceful retreat quickly becomes a blood-soaked nightmare when a brutal, goat-masked killer known as “Goatface,” played by horror icon Kane Hodder, makes his presence known. Fresh, fun, and unapologetically nostalgic, Kill Her Goats blends practical gore, 80s slasher homage, and tongue-in-cheek fan service into a memorable package. But does its vintage charm outweigh its flaws? Let’s dive in.
A Nostalgic Slasher with Real Guts
Steve Wolsh’s love letter to 80s slashers shines through immediately. From the film’s brutal opening kills, complete with hedge trimmers and physical gore, to Kane Hodder’s chilling, non-verbal portrayal of Goatface, the film captures the visceral essence of practical effects that defined horror’s golden age. There is no CGI here. Instead, it offers gritty, tangible makeup and effects that elevate every shredded victim and blood-soaked finale. Hodder, long revered for roles like Jason Voorhees, delivers once again. Goatface is towering, nearly silent, and undeniably terrifying. The film’s commitment to practical gore pays off and fans of classic horror effects will likely appreciate every moment of it.
Setting, Story, and Stylistic Hooks
Cape Cod’s moody backdrops and the ominous Tupp House provide an excellent visual contrast between beauty and terror. The atmosphere transitions smoothly from serene to sinister as the story unfolds. However, the backstory involving Audra’s inheritance, the house’s colonial history, and the twist surrounding Goatface’s identity lacks substance. Some critics argue that the plot drifts into confusion toward the climax, while others find the core narrative too simplistic and underdeveloped. At times, the film feels more like a vehicle for style and gore than for storytelling. This works for viewers who appreciate aesthetics over depth, but others may be left wanting more.
Characters and Acting: Beauty Over Depth
The characters largely fall into familiar slasher tropes. Audra and her friends spend much of the film lounging, drinking, and chatting, often in bikinis, with little character growth or emotional development. Arielle Raycene gives a capable performance as Audra, though the script offers her little to explore. Supporting characters like Missy, Reese, and Haley exist primarily to be part of the body count. Dialogue occasionally veers into campy or intentionally awkward territory, and the film features a noticeable amount of fan service through extended shower scenes and nudity. These elements may appeal to fans of old-school exploitation horror but might alienate viewers looking for stronger female leads or more meaningful character arcs.
Pacing and Structure: When Momentum Slows
The film opens with intensity, delivering immediate action and bloodshed. However, the middle portion slows considerably. The extended downtime between kills allows space for character interactions but also results in sagging tension. Several critics note that the middle third feels bloated and would have benefited from tighter editing. The suspense fades temporarily before Goatface returns to unleash the final act’s violence. For some, the slow pace adds to the build-up. For others, it interrupts the film’s momentum. It all depends on whether the viewer values steady pacing or atmospheric buildup in their horror films.
Final Kill Scenes and Lasting Impressions
The final act is chaotic and blood-drenched. Audra is forced to face both Goatface and a series of personal betrayals, including confrontations with her sister and ex-boyfriend. The reveal of family conflict as a core motive feels abrupt and adds a layer of confusion rather than clarity. Still, the climax is packed with creative kills, intense weaponry, and over-the-top moments that feel pulled straight from vintage VHS horror collections. Whether this ending works depends on the viewer’s expectations. Those looking for logic and resolution may be disappointed. Fans of brutal, unpredictable finales might find it a highlight of the entire film.
Conclusion: For Love or Loathing
Kill Her Goats is not trying to win awards or redefine horror. It is proudly low-budget, packed with practical gore, and clearly designed for fans of retro slasher films. Its flaws are undeniable. The story lacks depth, the pacing is uneven, and the characters are thinly drawn. Yet for those who love gritty kills, classic horror aesthetics, and Kane Hodder in another iconic villain role, this film offers plenty to enjoy. It is not for everyone. Viewers seeking character-driven horror or elevated storytelling may find it lacking. But for the right audience, Kill Her Goats is a fun, gory throwback to the golden era of practical horror effects.
Final Verdict
Highly recommended for slasher fans who appreciate practical effects, nostalgic gore, and campy fun.
View with caution if you prefer tightly written plots, deep characters, or suspense-driven horror.
If you are in the mood for something bloody, bold, and proudly absurd, this might be the perfect pick for your next horror movie night.