Following a series of strange murders, a group of students at a college campus set out to investigate the crimes and their seeming connection to the killer when they find out the killer is basing their crimes on urban legends they set out to stop the rampage.
Yes, this movie has a bad reputation and yet, it’s really not nearly as bad as reviews say. In the aftermath of the slasher revival brought on by Wes Craven’s Scream, URBAN LEGEND does well with an intriguing idea and makes the most of an already over saturated sub-genre.
URBAN LEGEND is by no means a masterpiece, but my only real problem with it is that it was aimed for the masses and the gore has been tones down considerably. Many of the killings could and should have been a lot gorier, no doubt a disappointment to all those who love their slasher films the redder the better. Speaking of red, a few well placed red herrings throughout has pretty much every character accounted for at one time or another, making it very difficult to pin-point the true killer(s) identity. A clever twist towards the end is far-fetched, sure, but nonetheless keeps audiences guessing right up until the last few moments.
Looking back nearly 20 years later, it’s shocking how URBAN LEGEND has been mostly forgotten. A standout cast featuring Jared Leto, Alicia Witt, Rebecca Gayheart, Joshua Jackson, Tara Reid, Natasha Gregson Warner and Danielle Harris headline as college kids. There is also an uncredited appearance from Brad Dourif too. All in all URBAN LEGEND uses an intriguing idea to bring to life a very enjoyable 90+ minute teen slasher that I think is perfect for a sleepover with friends or maybe even a date night. So break out the popcorn and blankets and strap yourself in for a fun slasher ride!
And remember… what you don’t believe can kill you.
