Are you feeling lucky?|Oct. 01, 2021|United States|85 Min.|R
Genre: Adventure;Crime;Drama;Horror;Mystery;Thriller
Description: Bingo Hell, released in 2021, is available for download in English in various resolutions, including 480p, 720p, and 1080p.
The movie’s storyline draws inspiration from Larry Yust’s 1974 black comedy, “Homebodies,” which depicted elderly retirees fiercely defending their homes against the forces of gentrification. Similarly, “Bingo Hell,” part of the “Welcome to the Blumhouse” series on Amazon Prime, explores a community of seniors in a Southern California desert town. Directed by Gigi Saul Guerrero, the film blends comedy and horror, though it leans heavily into exaggerated, cartoonish tones, which may dilute its impact.
The plot follows Lupita, a loudmouthed, community-driven woman played by Adriana Barraza. Alongside her group of aging friends—Yolanda, Clarence, Morris, and Mario—she struggles to keep their town, Oak Springs, from falling into decline. As businesses shutter and houses go up for sale, a mysterious stranger arrives, bringing supernatural threats that overshadow the initial commentary on gentrification.
While the film starts with a sharp critique of urban development and the exploitation of the elderly, it soon veers into an underdeveloped, Stephen King-esque narrative. The mysterious antagonist lacks depth, and the themes lose focus amidst the chaotic satire. At 85 minutes, the movie feels stretched, leaving its potential themes and storylines unresolved.
The town’s struggles are personified through its residents, including Lupita’s best friend, Dolores, who deals with her own family issues, such as her ungrateful daughter-in-law and wayward grandson. Amidst the tension, the presence of a trendy café hints at the encroaching gentrification, symbolizing the threat to their way of life.
Overall, “Bingo Hell” offers a blend of humor and horror but falls short in fully realizing its narrative potential. Despite its flaws, it provides an entertaining watch for fans of genre-bending films.
Cast director: Gigi Saúl Guerrero
Cast actor: Adriana Barraza, L. Scott Caldwell, Clayton Landey, Richard Brake, Joshua Caleb Johnson, Bertila Damas, David Jensen, Grover Coulson, Kelly Murtagh, Jonathan Medina
Original name: Bingo Hell