Shane Ryan’s films have been hit or miss with me, though most have been entertaining on various levels. “Amateur Porn Star Killer” is his best film to date, but it is far from entertaining. In fact, I place this in my Hell Cinema category, as it is damn disturbing to watch.
Ryan plays Brandon, a man who has picked up a girl (Michiko Jimenez) who is waiting for a ride from her mom. Brandon takes her to his hotel room and convinces her to be in his film, which eventually leads to her stripping down to her underwear for him and his camera. It is at this point that we learn she’s much younger than the eighteen she first claimed to be. The two then engage in some carnal activities (also caught on Brandon’s camera) before Brandon lives up to the film’s title.
This movie, which does drag in some places, doesn’t really have a plot. It’s just a man filming some sex and a murder. That said, it is very realistic and utterly unforgettable. The dialogue sounds improvised, and the girl seems very uncomfortable being in the same room with Brandon. Her reactions to what is going on is what makes this film so hard to stomach. This is supposed to be a video the killer made, and it really plays like it (with music and some other stuff added for effect). Had Ryan just shot the video as is without music and the added bits, he would probably be getting a visit from the police (and still may). It’s only a movie, though, and you need to remember that while watching it.
I would’ve have given this a higher rating if it moved a bit faster and the girl screamed at least once. People are still going to be upset that I’m giving it any praise, however, as there aren’t any of the normal “redeeming qualities” to be found here. Instead, Ryan made a film meant to convey a mood and disturb, and it pretty much succeeds in doing that. My hat goes off to him, as I’m sure this is going to cause some problems for him down the road. See it while you still can, but be prepared. It will ruin your day.
