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Cast: Brandon Salkil, Erin R. Ryan
Brilliant oncologist Peter Peel discovers a possible cure for skin cancer in the belly of an exotic parasite. When he tests the cure on himself his world is shattered and a monster is born.
"The Ballad of Skinless Pete" is the latest offering from Writer/Director, Dustin Mills. Dustin has gained a good following in the Indie scene thanks to films such as The Puppet Monster Massacre and Zombie A-Hole. Skinless Pete is a bit different than all the rest of Dustin's film, sure it still has the over-the-top practical effects we have all come to love from him but it is also his most serious and mature film to date. The slim and effects that only Dustin can provide are all there but the rest of the film takes on a more serious tone. As much as I have loved his previous work this one really struck me as his masterpiece, at least to date.
The film deals with Peter Peel, a Oncologist who thinks he may of found the cure to skin cancer inside a parasite he has inside a jar. Unable to persuade the person that is funding his work Pete decides to use the drug on himself but what he doesn't know is that there will be a price to pay. The story is pretty simple yet there is a lot going on in the film so I am not going to talk about what happens anymore so not to ruin the film for those wanting to see it. The characters are complex and the interaction among them is spot on.
Speaking of Characters Dustin again uses his two ace actors, Brandon Salkil and Erin R. Ryan. Erin is as beautiful and talented as ever and Brandon's stock has risen once again with his turn as Pete. A lot of his physical acting in the film reminded be of Jeff Goldblum's "The Fly." In fact the movie over all gave me that feeling, I am not sure if it is just me or if Dustin was paying homage a bit well presenting an original and unique piece of cinema.
Either way "The Ballad of Skinless Pete" is a film not to be missed, it has amazing effects and a story that sucks you in right from the start and it doesn't let go till its tragic end. I loved everything about this film and as always I find it amazing that Dustin Mills is able to create such quality entertainment on little budget. The film shocks and consumes you right from the start, this is a must own for any fan of Indie cinema. The sky is the limit for Dustin, I hope someone takes notice of the incredible work he has done up till now and funds his next project, until then make sure you check out this awesome flick. You can find out how you can own the film by visiting Dustin's Facebook page HERE.
Released by Dustin Mills Productions
***** Out Of *****