Plot: What’s it about?
Matthew Welsh (Arye Gross) has worked as a front desk clerk at a small hotel for as long as he can remember, though he longs for more out of life. He is thirty years old, but his life has minimal depth or direction, to the point that he relies on fantasies, daydreams, and out and out lies. He spins more lies than even he can remember, all geared to make his life better than it is. His latest and perhaps most outrageous tale involves a hot and heavy love affair with Hexina (Claudia Christian), the world’s hottest supermodel. Of course, since he will never see her in real life, Matthew assumes his lie will remain unexposed. But when Hexina books a room at his hotel, he knows he is in trouble and his coworkers can’t wait to see the truth uncovered. But to everyone’s surprise, including his own, he somehow manages to get close to Hexina. He starts by handling her phone calls, but soon finds himself drawn in and soon enough, the two hook up in the bedroom. Matthew’s life finally has the spark he always wanted, but a dark cloud soon settles over him. Hexina isn’t just beautiful, she is also a psychopath and even tries to pin the murders on him.
I’d seen Hexed in video stores before, but never given the movie much thought, as I don’t often grab spoofs as a first choice. But when this disc arrived and I noticed it was written and directed by Alan Spencer, the creator of the cult television series Sledge Hammer, I knew I had to give it a chance. After all, I love Sledge Hammer, so if this movie is even close to that level, it would be awesome. I went in with an open mind and positive hopes, but Hexed isn’t on the same level as Sledge Hammer, not even close. I have read some merciless reviews, calling this movie a total failure, but I wasn’t that disappointed. I know the movie could have and should have been better, but for a diversion, Hexed was passable. All spoofs seem dated even a few years beyond production and Hexed proves to be no exception. You’ll enjoy it more if you’ve seen a lot of erotic thrillers like Basic Instinct and Fatal Attraction, but even then, don’t expect a hilarious production. As much as I wanted to love Hexed, I didn’t, but I do think if you’re interested, a rental is worthwhile.
Video: How does it look?
Hexed is presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen. The print is clean and without serious marks, while the colors look bright, within a more natural scale. I never saw any bleeds or distortion, and flesh tones looked right on target. I found no errors with the contrast either, detail is good and shadow look deep and accurate. This is an example of a solid, but unremarkable visual presentation. Yes, the transfer could have better, but I doubt anyone will be let down here.
Audio: How does it sound?
This disc uses a 2.0 surround track, which offers a wide and immersive soundscape for this film. Of course this movie doesn’t offer as much potential for dynamic as say, a science-fiction flick, but this is still an active and effective mix. You’ll hear a nice amount of directional use and surround activity, but it never becomes forced or overdone. The dialogue is clear and at a proper volume. This disc also includes subtitles in English, Spanish, and Japanese.
Supplements: What are the extras?
Alan Spencer provides a terrific audio commentary track, in which he stuffs in more stories, memories, and anecdotes than you can keep up with. He focuses on the positive, but does relay some production woes, in between humorous stories. This disc also includes some deleted scenes with optional audio comments, as well as a brief behind the scenes featurette.
