Once the Killing Starts

Synopsis

Once the Killing Starts, directed by Vern Davenport and starring Patrick O'Neal, is a 1974 thriller that unfolds in the remote wilderness, adding layers of suspense and tension. The film follows a group of campers who become targets of a mysterious slasher in a mountainous retreat. As paranoia and fear escalate amid the natural isolation, the survivors must navigate both the treacherous terrain and their unraveling trust in one another to survive. Balancing elements of horror and psychological thriller, Once the Killing Starts creates a chilling atmosphere, capturing the vulnerability of its characters in a setting that becomes as menacing as the killer itself.

Cast

• 

  Patrick O'Neal

  Michael Lane

• 

  Angharad Rees

  Stella Mason

• 

  Michael Kitchen

  George Newton

• 

  Gerald Sim

  Peterson

• Gary Watson

  Inspector Rush

• 

  Patricia Donahue

  Elizabeth Lane

Reviews

Critically, Once the Killing Starts has received mixed reactions over the years. On IMDb, it holds a moderate rating around 5.7/10, indicating a lukewarm reception from general audiences. Some viewers appreciate the film's suspenseful setup and the eerie isolation that contributes to its horror elements. Notably, reviewers have praised Patrick O'Neal's performance, highlighting his portrayal of escalating tension as a strong point. However, critics often cite the film's pacing and dated production values as drawbacks. For example, some narrative elements are considered predictable, and the special effects have not aged well. The lack of depth in character development also detracts from the overall emotional impact, according to user reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, where it doesn't hold an official critic score but has garnered a cult following among fans of vintage horror. On Metacritic, there's limited data, but retrospective discussions praise its contribution to early slasher tropes despite its shortcomings. Overall, While not a perfect thriller, Once the Killing Starts offers a nostalgic, atmospheric experience within the 1970s horror genre.