"Glowies," a film directed by Hank Braxton, was released in 2023. The movie revolves around a group of radioactive zombies that have been trapped in a mine for years, officially titled glow-in-the-dark zombies or "Glowies." When these creatures escape, chaos ensues. The story further unfolds as a group of social media influencers, in the same area to shoot videos, accidentally cross paths with the zombies.
The unique twist to this zombie narrative is the blend of these influencers teaming up with a group of military veterans who have monitored the mine for potential breaches over the years. This family-friendly twist on the usual zombie storyline attempts to provide a mix of action and humor but struggles to fully deliver.
While "Glowies" seems to aim at capturing the reminiscent feelings of classics like "The Goonies" or "Gremlins," the film falls short due to some key elements. The characters, especially the influencers, lack the charm needed, creating a disconnect that makes it hard for audiences to root for them. Unlike the classics where endearing misfits were lovable despite their quirks, these characters come off as less appealing.
Despite the mediocre reception, the film features notable actors like James Remar and Michael Dorn, which adds depth to an otherwise lackluster ensemble. The effects, a crucial element for a science fiction and horror film, do not meet expectations, resulting in an aesthetic reminiscent of a made-for-TV movie that lacks compelling charm.
Comparatively, Hank Braxton's previous endeavor "Snake Outta Compton" was received well in its comedic absurdity, where even the bad CGI added to its charm. "Glowies" leans more into the forgettable camp of bad-dumb movies, a loss for what could have been an entertaining, light-hearted zombie flick.
While "Glowies" isn’t without its moments, ultimately it misses making any meaningful impact, earning it a merely satisfactory rating. Audiences seeking similar content are suggested to revisit Braxton's "Snake Outta Compton" for a more fulfilling comedic experience affirming it's possible to balance dumb and delightful.