That is in part because Ragsdale has a strong sense of what he’s trying to convey with these characters. The vampires are sexy and bloodsuckers, but also fun and sweet. Wes just wants to take care of his family, but is also so excited that the supernatural is real. These people are silly fun, and all are easy to like and root for.
That’s not to say there’s nothing realistic or more grounded in Only Fangs. The film takes the romance between Reese and Wes seriously, and it becomes the beating heart of the story. Wes’s wanting to take care of his family also feels genuine. And once the stakes are revealed (admittedly, it takes a long time for that to happen), there is a sense of danger to the third act. Plus, a twist very late into the proceedings gives the film some rewatchability so you can go back and pick up all the little tells that lead up to the reveal.
“…not a horror film and will disappoint anyone expecting it to be.”
Bowling is as charming and sweet as ever. Flux is really strong as the adrift sister. She sells the uncertainty well while clearly having fun as she comes into her own. Church’s absurd accent is funny from her first scene to her last. Marvick is funny and affable and plays off his co-stars well. The rest of the vampire cast is good-looking and funny as required.
Only Fangs is not a horror film and will disappoint anyone expecting it to be. But it is a very funny comedy that just wants to entertain. Most of the jokes land, and the cast all perform appropriately silly. Plus, the third act really kicks things into high gear, with some well-handled story curves and action.
"…over-the-top and goofy..."
