‘Bad Connection’ VOD Review
Stars: Dana Davis, Chris Gann, Deon Richmond, Michael Naizu, Camila Banus, Orel De La Mota, Tiffany Shepis | Written by Jake Helgren, Stephen Wells | Directed by Jake Helgren
In Bad Connection, director Jake Helgren, known for his mix of holiday romances and thrillers, delivers a slasher film that blends suspense, horror, and relentless action.
The story follows Nina, played by Dana Davis, a waitress who unwittingly becomes the target of a ruthless killer after her boyfriend gifts her a stolen phone—one that holds evidence of the murderer’s crimes. What starts as an innocent upgrade quickly spirals into a desperate fight for survival as the killer hunts down anyone in possession of the device.
The film wastes no time setting up its premise, kicking off with a tense and brutal opening sequence that establishes the antagonist’s ruthlessness. The stakes remain high throughout, with the killer methodically eliminating obstacles in his way. Helgren keeps the pacing tight, ensuring there’s never a dull moment in its brisk 83-minute runtime. The straightforward plot, which revolves around a killer retrieving what’s his, allows the action and suspense to take centre stage.
Dana Davis anchors the film with a compelling performance, bringing depth and authenticity to Nina. Her portrayal makes her an easy protagonist to root for, elevating the standard ‘final girl’ trope with a sense of realism. Michael Naizu, as her boyfriend Mark, provides a believable and likeable counterpart. Meanwhile, Chris Gann delivers a chilling performance as the relentless killer, using his physicality and cold demeanour to great effect. The supporting cast—including horror veteran Tiffany Shepis and Deon Richmond—adds additional layers to the film’s overall credibility.
Visually, Bad Connection strikes an interesting balance between polished cinematography and gritty violence. The film retains some of the glossy aesthetics of Helgren’s previous work, but the contrast between its clean presentation and brutal action adds to the intensity. The kills are executed with creative brutality that should satisfy horror enthusiasts, offering a mix of suspense and outright carnage.
That being said, Bad Connection isn’t without its shortcomings. Some character decisions fall into the realm of predictable horror tropes, which might frustrate viewers looking for a fresh take on the genre. Additionally, one particular casting choice—a minor role played by a recognizable pop culture figure—feels somewhat distracting, momentarily pulling focus from the film’s tension.
Despite these minor flaws, Bad Connection is an engaging and well-executed slasher that delivers exactly what it promises: suspense, action, and plenty of bloodshed. Helgren’s ability to craft an entertaining thriller is on full display, making this a solid choice for horror fans seeking a fast-paced, no-nonsense thrill ride.
***½ 3.5/5
Bad Connection is available on digital platforms now.
