Unveiling the Layers of 'Bad Haircut': A Genre-Bending Thriller with a Twist
The Newport Beach Film Festival showcased a unique cinematic experience with the premiere of 'Bad Haircut', a film that defies easy categorization. Among the 300+ films screened over seven days, this dark comedy thriller stood out, captivating audiences and critics alike.
At its core, 'Bad Haircut' is a tale of an insecure college student, Billy (played by Spencer Harrison Levin), who embarks on a journey of self-improvement with the help of his friends. Their plan? A simple haircut at a new barbershop. Little do they know, the barber, Mick (Frankie Ray), is a psychopath with a dark secret. The film's poster, hinting at horror, sets the stage for a thrilling ride, but the story takes an unexpected turn.
Director Kyle Misak, drawing from a personal experience with a college barber, crafted a character that would become the heart of the film. "He was larger than life, and I saw him as a character," Misak said. This eccentric barber, Mick, becomes the catalyst for a story that explores the fine line between character and villain. Ray, who portrayed Mick, delved deep into the character's psyche, revealing a complex backstory that mirrored his own life struggles.
As the plot unfolds, a missing college student, Sam (Nora Freetly), adds a layer of mystery. The audience is left to wonder about Mick's potential involvement, creating a sense of suspense that keeps them engaged.
The production of 'Bad Haircut' was not without its challenges. Producer Jon Petro highlighted the intricate details that made the filming process demanding. From managing a large crew and extras to executing a cliffside explosion, the team faced numerous obstacles. The climax, involving an ice cream truck exploding after a daring cliff dive, required a diving team to retrieve the truck, repair it, and recreate the explosion—a testament to the film's dedication to its vision.
Despite the hurdles, the film's premiere was a success, leaving an enthusiastic audience captivated. Misak expressed the joy of sharing the movie with a live audience, emphasizing the emotional impact of their reactions. 'Bad Haircut' challenges genre norms, blending comedy, thriller, and drama, and invites viewers to question their perceptions of characters and narratives.
