Fantastic Fest never fails to showcase horror made by promising up-and-coming filmmakers. Writer and director Kyle Misak (Class of ’85) is a perfect example of that. This year’s fest included the world premier of Misak’s latest feature, Bad Haircut. In this offbeat horror comedy, an unpopular college kid goes to get a haircut from a barber his friends recommend. While at first the barber seems a odd, the kid soon realizes he’s an deranged psychopath.

Misak’s film is an unexpected gem. While the premise of Bad Haircut sounds simple, the plot takes the audience on a twisted, hilarious journey filled with plenty of surprises. When the protagonist, Billy, is introduced, it’s immediately apparent he is not one of the cool guys in college. He has no game with the ladies and he’d rather drink chocolate milk at a party than alcohol. His friends think if he just had a better haircut, and maybe a wardrobe change, then his confidence and swagger would greatly improve. Billy is skeptical, and he becomes even more wary when he meets the barber, Mick. Mick is eccentric, spacey, and downright creepy. Despite this, there’s something also quite lovable about the guy. When Billy’s friends leave him alone with Mick, what begins as a strange encounter quickly spirals out of control. Bad Haircut certainly delivers the laughs with a type of comedy that seems reminiscent of the 90s while also weaving in murder, kidnapping, and heaps of suspense. The humor won’t be for everyone, and there are certain elements of Mick’s story that might give one pause, but there’s no denying this film is a wild ride.

The performances in Bad Haircut bring to life unique characters in memorable ways. Spencer Harrison Levin (#ChadGetstheAxe, Raymar) stars as Billy. What’s so great about Levin’s performance is that he shows Billy is undoubtedly a bit dorky, but he is also 100% himself. Because he gets bullied by the popular jocks in college, he’s willing to trust his friends to become “cool,” but he always stays true to himself. Levin creates a great balance of nervous energy, especially around the barber, and a kindhearted nature that makes him always want to help others. Frankie Ray (Blade, Tonight She Comes) plays Mick the barber. As soon as Mick appears on screen, it’s clear he’s not quite right in the head. Ray is a showstopper in this role. For the most part, he makes the character quirky, spacey, and even dangerous. Despite this, Ray also highlights a different, endearing side of Mick, making it easier to empathize with this odd character just looking for love. Levin and Ray are also brilliant together, creating a delicate balance with these polar opposite characters.

Despite this comedic thriller not having a ton of graphic practical effects, Bad Haircut still has plenty of visual interest. Part of that is thanks to the unique cinematography throughout the film. There are many shots, especially when Mick is on screen, that help to enhance the character’s eccentricities. Similarly, Bad Haircut incorporates a score composed by Geoff Zanelli (Maleficent: Mistress of Evil) that balances the thrills and comedy throughout the film. Because Billy mostly gets bullied for his hair, the hairstyles throughout the film play an important role. Almost everyone in the film has perfect hair, except for Billy and Mick. Billy’s hair is just kind of long and poofy without a real style while Mick’s hair is long and scraggly. Then there’s the wardrobe. Matching his hairstyle, Billy doesn’t have much fashion sense, mostly wearing oversized tees and khaki shorts. Mick, on the other hand, dresses in a flamboyant fashion that blends the style of a glam rocker and a pirate. That is until a dramatic wardrobe change for the final act of the film. All of these elements, plus some fantastic set design, help add to the offbeat humor and dread.

Bad Haircut is a funny, anxiety-filled thriller with an unexpectedly gooey, heartfelt center. Misak has created something that manages to be both nostalgic and fresh, delivering a unique sense of humor and a bizarre cast of characters to keep audiences glued to the screen from start to finish. It’s a very specific type of humor, but those who connect with it will enjoy every oddball minute. Levin and Ray are a joy to watch, crafting laughs as they play two zany characters. Keep an eye out for Bad Haircut as it continues it’s festival circuit. And be sure to stay all the way through the credits so you don’t miss a minute of Billy’s story.

OVERALL RATING: 7/10