Murdercise is the kind of movie that knows exactly what it is: a low-budget love letter to 80s slasher flicks and aerobic workout videos, wrapped in a neon-soaked package of pure, unadulterated camp. Directed by Angelica De Alba and Paul Ragsdale, this indie gem doesn't pretend to be high art-it revels in its absurdity, and that's where its charm lies. It's "so bad it's good" in the best possible way, delivering laughs, gore, and a wild ride that's hard not to enjoy if you're in on the joke.
The plot follows Phoebe (Kansas Bowling), a fitness-obsessed nerd who lands a gig in a sleazy workout video, only to snap and start murdering her way to the top with the help of a mafia princess wild child (Nina Lanee Kent). It's as ridiculous as it sounds, and the film leans into every over-the-top moment with gusto. The dialogue is hilariously clunky, the acting delightfully wooden at times, and the kills-like a standout chainsaw-to-the-head scene-are gloriously low-fi yet effective. This is B-movie territory through and through, and it's all the better for it.
What's truly impressive is how much the production team squeezes out of what's clearly a shoestring budget. The 80s aesthetic-think sweatbands, Walkmans, and blue/purple lighting-is spot-on, capturing that retro vibe without breaking the bank. The soundtrack is catchy and fits the tone perfectly, while the practical effects, though simple, add a gritty charm that CGI could never replicate. For a crowdfunded indie flick, the lighting and sound are surprisingly solid-two areas where low-budget films often falter. De Alba and Ragsdale deserve serious props for stretching their limited resources this far and still delivering a cohesive, entertaining product.
The cast, including indie darling Kansas Bowling and the legendary Ginger Lynn, throws themselves into their roles with reckless abandon. Sure, it's not Oscar-worthy, but that's not the point-everyone's clearly having a blast, and that energy is infectious. Jessa Flux's bratty demand to have her "tits seen" and Bowling's coked-up, chainsaw-wielding finale are moments of pure, unhinged joy that stick with you.
Murdercise isn't for everyone-it's too rough around the edges and proudly silly for mainstream tastes. But for fans of 80s slashers, horror comedies, or just gloriously bad cinema, it's a treat. It's a testament to what passion and creativity can achieve, even with next to no money. A&P Productions have crafted a scrappy little film that's rough, raw, and ridiculously fun. I'd watch it again in a heartbeat.
This review highlights the film's low-budget appeal, praises the production's effort, and embraces its "so bad it's good" vibe while keeping it concise and engaging, perfect for an IMDb user review.
