The film begins with a mysterious man altering a bank cheque, explicitly changing the amount that can be withdrawn. Shortly after, we hear a narration from an enigmatic woman. Her words reveal that something horrifying once occurred, preventing her from ever returning Rolby’s Beach. However, she sometimes revisits in her dreams, where everything feels cold. The woman reflects on how they were young and innocent at the time of the tragic event, believing nothing could go wrong. Yet, sometimes, we lose control over our lives, and dreams can quickly transform into terrifying nightmares. The story then takes us back to witness the horrifying events she has described.
After finishing their final exams for the term, Liz (Marie O’Loughlin) and Joanne (Kerry Mack) have made secret plans to head down to Rolby’s Beach for the weekend to celebrate. It’s no secret that even their parents are unaware of their party plans. At the last minute, they invite fellow student Jilly (Kim Trengove) to join them.
Meanwhile, a woman named Pamela (Karen West) meets with a man at a nearby restaurant. Pamela is receiving information about a new job and a scam that she must complete to satisfy bookies. Although she is displeased with what is being asked of her, she feels she has no choice but to accept. She is handed an envelope that contains a fraudulent bank cheque.
Liz, Joanne, and Jilly pack their bags and embark on their journey to Rolby’s Beach. However, they encounter suspicious strangers who make them uneasy as they travel. Things take a terrifying turn when they find themselves being stalked and hunted by a group of men in black vehicles who want to engage them in dangerous games on the road. Can Liz, Joanne, and Jilly outrun the chaos? Working together, will they be able to survive this horrifying trip?
Desolation Angels is a film that combines drama, horror, and thriller elements. It is classified as an Ozploitation film and was co-written and directed by Christopher Fitchett. His other works behind the camera include The Fear of Darkness (2015) and Blood Money (1980).
There is some enjoyment to be found in this thriller and horror, but it is unfortunately limited. The story takes time, including the story of the leads travelling to their party destination. However, the pace picks up once the characters start to feel uncomfortable and suspicious of those around them. This is also the same for several intense scenes that involve road rage and car stunts. The car sequences are engaging and have a raw, gritty feel, complemented by some dangerous stunts for their time. Another significant aspect of this film is the intense showdown in the third act. With multiple characters involved, it becomes a matter of survival, and again, it feels authentic and filled with unsettling moments. Additionally, I found several elements of the ending to be unpredictable.
Unfortunately, the film could have had better performances and dialogue. The conversations between characters lack realism and feel incredibly forced, as if the cast is merely reading from a script. Even when the main characters find themselves in horrifying situations, there is a noticeable absence of emotion on-screen. The film’s beginning is slow and awkward, and several scenes could have been more interesting and exciting.
Overall, as an Ozploitation film, this was a disappointing experience. There are some standout moments, such as thrilling car chase sequences and impressive stunts, and the film’s finale heightens the tension with a good level of unpredictability. However, I found the film’s beginning clunky, and the performances were often lacking in emotion, especially in the scenes where the leads confront crazed psychopaths who are just looking for some fun. Unfortunately, I had a below-average experience with this film; most of it could have been more exciting.
Desolation Angels (1982) is Now Available on Blu-ray thanks to Umbrella Entertainment!
FILM SCORE: 4.0/10
Published: 11th December 2024
Written by: Peter Walkden
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