As we enter October, it’s always fun to seek out seasonal movies that aren’t part of the Halloween franchise or other familiar classics, like the beloved anthology Trick ‘r Treat. Strange Harvest, written and directed by Christopher M. Carter and Jessica Morgan, is a straight-to-VOD Halloween slasher that’s heavy on atmosphere and an enjoyable watch, especially with a group.

Morgan and Brittany Isabell play sisters Audrey and Madison. Of the two, Madison isn’t a fan of Halloween after she was attacked a year prior to the film’s main events. However, Audrey’s friend, Joyce (Autumn Gubersky), throws one heck of a spooky season bash each year. Audrey really, really wants to go, especially since all her friends plan to attend. She eventually coaxes her younger sis to partake in the festivities.

In terms of plot, this film has a lot going for it, including trauma and a past that refuses to stay dead. Every little thing about the holiday shakes up Madison, and for good reason. Attending a party is a major accomplishment and feat for her. However, it turns out that a killer in a creepy scarecrow mask resurfaces every Halloween to make sacrifices to the spirits. This bit doesn’t fully make sense, but the killer scarecrow looks cool enough to justify the weird motivation. Needless to say, Audrey, Madison, and various friends, including Audrey’s boyfriend, Dane (Jim Cirner), are in serious danger. The party turns deadly fast alright. Slashers fans will be happy to know that this film really doesn’t skimp on the gore, especially in its second half. Though none of the kills are quite over the top, they’re still pretty bloody. This axe-wielding scarecrow doesn’t mess around.

If the film has a major fault, it’s the acting. This movie is very indie with a few B movie qualities, but that doesn’t mean it’s not enjoyable. In fact, I can see folks sitting around on Halloween night, watching this, perhaps chugging a few beers or taking shots during some of the dialogue. It’s unclear if some of the lines were meant to be intentionally funny, or if it’s the acting. Still, those moments, and there are plenty, make this feature all the more charming and endearing.

In terms of the production design, this film goes all out setting the right tone for the season. Nearly every frame has Halloween decorations, especially during the party scenes, or leaves blowing down a quiet street. Though the film is set in present day, with a few of the characters using their smartphones, there’s a retro feel to this one that harkens back to the 1980s or early 90s. It has a nostalgic feel while still taking place in present day.

Night of the Harvest certainly isn’t a slasher masterpiece. Still, it’s an entertaining feature and an indie movie with a lot of blood, guts, and heart. This is a movie to watch with friends, late on Halloween night, after the party winds down, or after the last trick or treater leaves. It’s a pulpy midnight slasher.