Brute 1976 (2025) Review

When two groups of seemingly carefree young people (a pair of hitchhikers and a group on a photo shoot, that will be central to what develops) unwittingly come across an abandoned desert town which is fittingly called ‘Savage’, all hell breaks loose as they embark on a thrilling race for survival, with a murderous masked family out to catch them and out for blood.

That is the premise for Brute 1976, the latest from director Marcel Walz and armed with a cast full of great characters (crucially, with several 1970s stereotypes well represented), a soundtrack that really adds to the nostalgic atmosphere, and plenty of gore-laden chaos, he delivers an entertaining blast from start to finish. And one that perfectly captures the essence of the time in which it was set.

The film is a great homage to classic ’70s horror flicks in vision and spirit. In particular, inspiration comes from films like The Hills Have Eyes and especially, the original The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (which is directly referenced by name in the film and plenty of sequences are indebted to  it). But rather than being a straight ripoff, the influence taken with a sense of respect, bringing ideas but opening up its own, and it definitely works.

There are other kindred spirits in inspiration in there too, both stylistically and visually with The Devil’s Rejects (the feel of it and how the movie is delivered) offering a similar energy and outlook. Other cultural elements such as the legend of the Manson Family and the intense desert setting of Bone Tomahawk also act as inspiration for the horror that takes place. It is not an understatement to say that Brute 1976 is a relentless feast for the senses for any rabid gorehound, with the action moving on at a fast pace throughout, and plenty of twists and turns along the way to keep things exciting.

The whole 1970s feel of the movie is also done very well with, as the title suggests, it being set in America’s Bicentennial year, the film touches on social issues like race and sexuality amongst all the mayhem and gore. This gives it an extra depth, while the look of the film is otherwise quite simple, taking a lot of power from its perilous, expansive desert setting.

There are several outstanding and horrifying set-pieces on display in the movie, and some of the shocking elements involved really add to the overall tension created. A scene that is soundtracked by the Star Spangled Banner works particularly well, in a macabre fashion. And one involving a ‘gloryhole’, doesn’t leave much to the imagination, and is particularly memorable for its shock value. It is safe to say that Brute 1976 is not for those with a weak stomach!

With the ending of film leaving the door wide open for more savage shenanigans, so we can expect a sequel set ten years later in the near future that will offer up more slasher fun. This definitely isn’t the last we will hear from the bloodthirsty Birdy family, so get on board with their origins right here, and let Brute 1976 take you on a wild ride.

Movie Rating:

Brute 1976 trailer