“Hunt Club,” starring Academy Award nominee Mickey Rourke, Mena Suvari, and Casper Van Dien, is an intense revenge thriller by David Lipper. It was released on April 4 in the United States and Canada.
David Lipper of “Full House” fame served as a screenwriter, producer and co-star of the new thriller, which was eloquently directed by Elizabeth Blake-Thomas. He stars alongside such actors as Mena Suvari (“American Beauty”), Mickey Rourke, Casper Van Dien, Maya Stojan, Will Peltz, Jessica Belkin, Jeremy London, Jason London, and Kipp Tribble.
The synopsis is: Cassandra (Mena Suvari) just lost her girlfriend and daughter and is desperate to find help. In walks Carter offering her the chance to win $100,000 if she participates in the hunt on his island. She soon finds other women who are there for the cash have been tied up, only to be released as the hunted.
With the help of Tessa and Lexi, Cassandra turns the tables on the men showing that women can be better hunters.
Mena Suvari steals every scene she is in, and she is not afraid to be raw, bold, and vulnerable. This is some of Suvari’s most compelling acting work in recent years.
Equally impressive are Casper Van Dien, Lipper, and Oscar nominee Mickey Rourke (“The Wrestler”), all of which help bring this unflinching screenplay by John F. Saunders and Lipper to life. The entire cast offers something distinct to this thriller.
The Verdict
Overall, “Hunt Club” is high-energy, gripping, and a great deal of fun. The acting performances are electrifying and memorable, and the script will certainly keep the audience engaged, especially the third and final act. Elizabeth Blake-Thomas deserves to be commended for her solid direction and vision for this thriller. This is a lacerating narrative that needs to be told.
Most importantly, the movie will provide a much-needed escape for viewers and fans. “Hunt Club” garners 4.5 out of 5 stars.
