‘Villains’ is a film that is not your run-of-the-mill narrative. I was hard-pressed to find a comparable movie to describe the universe created here. Dan Berk and Robert Olsen are the writers and directors for this missive and both have teamed up before. Once I put the combination of excellent drivers and a fantastic cast, I almost had an adrenaline rush. You’ve come to the right place if you want to see Bill Skarsgård without a clown face. Starring Maika Monroe and Bill Skarsgård, Villains is a lesser-known horror indie movie gem.

Mickey and Jules are the fun type of criminals. The film begins with the two having donned unicorn heads and pigeon head masks knocking over a convenience store.

They both have big plans and at the top of the list is selling shells from a sandy beach in Florida. Where else would you come up with a business plan that’s 100% profit?

Maybe they aren’t as dumb as they seem.

Smooth Criminal Villains

The film begins with the two carefree, happy-go-lucky, and likable masterminds, setting about on their getaway. Unfortunately, they promptly run out of gas. Spotting a nearby house, they make a break for it and enter, assuming this is where they will buy some time while they figure out what to do. They expect to at least acquire a replacement car so they can continue on their escapade.

Bill Skarsgård, and Maika Monroe in the villains film. — Bill Skarsgård, and Maika Monroe

Dan Berk & Robert Olsen previously directed The Stakelander (2016) and The Body (2015.)

But what happens when two nominal bad guys find themselves at the mercy of some unassuming worse bad guys? The type of people that have a whole Stepford wives meets serial killer psychopath thing going on. Well, that’s about the sum of Villians, sort of. Until, of course, our hapless friendly kind-of stupid criminals meet George and Gloria.

Aside from one of the many Skarsgård boys adorning the casting for this new film from Gunpowder & Sky’s brand Alter, Maika Monroe is also front and center as the lively Jules. What a great team.

Villains Movie

Like anything that seems too good to be true, Villains is not without its disappointments. This is a film with plenty of potential contained in a story about screwy suburbanites with secrets in the basement. Unfortunately, though, it has none of the low blows it needs to pull its pants up.

Labeled as a comedy, the story isn’t funny enough for a laugh-out-a-loud suppressed cackle, and as a thriller, it lacks the propensity to truly get you on the edge of your seat.

It does pass as an oddball dark romantic ode on how to get bad guys to want to walk the straight and narrow. Sometimes love can conquer anything and good intentions can overcome hurdles you never saw coming.

A title that will leave you satisfied with the stand-out performances from all involved. It’s an easy watch with enjoyable moments and some comedic elements in its darker moments. For another review of the Villains movie check out The Aisle Seat website.

The Villains movie is rated

3.5 smashed babies out of 5