Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon (2006)

"Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon" is one of those obscure little films that seemingly nobody's really heard of. And it's a shame, because it's a very fun satire and deconstruction of slasher films that horror fans will likely adore.

In this "mockumentary," a group of journalists led by a woman named Taylor Gentry follow a charming young man named Leslie Vernon... who just-so-happens to aspire to be the world's next great serial killer. Idolizing other figures such as Jason Voorhees and Michael Myers, Leslie has been gradually prepping for his first major outing as a murderer. And Taylor and her crew are there to document every step he takes, while also questioning his motives.

The real charm of this film comes from the fact that it's made by horror fans for horror fans. It's slick and very smart in its execution, and shows a vast knowledge of the tropes and cliches of the genre. In a lot of ways, it follows in the foot-steps of other self-aware horror satires like "Scream," and does so in the best of ways. It's a lot of fun to see Leslie prepping for all of the different circumstances and making sure to check off all the conventions we're used to as an audience - the virgin survivor, the couple who get killed during some hanky-panky, etc. I was particularly tickled by Leslie's excitement over the appearance of a "Dr. Loomis"-like character he refers to as his "Ahab."

And the cast is just phenomenal. Nathan Baesel is endlessly likable as our titular lead character, and you'll quickly find yourself rooting for him despite his evil deeds thanks to his non-stop optimism and drive to succeed. Angela Goethals is also a great deal of fun as Taylor, the journalist in charge of following Leslie's case. She lends a sense of class and helps keep the film grounded. I absolutely adored Scott Wilson in a small part as Leslie's mentor figure. And there's even some really fun supporting parts played by horror royalty, including a cameo by Zelda Rubinstein and a very entertaining recurring character - the aforementioned "Ahab" - played by Robert "Freddy Krueger" Englund.

I'd definitely give this film a high recommendation for horror fans. While I will say it can occasionally drag and that its low budget does show, the fact is it's cleverly written, sharply executed and has a fantastic cast tying it all together. And I'm giving it a very good 4 out of 5.

TedStixon