The Overlook Theatre Reviews: He Never Died

6 of 7 viewers "Liked" "He Never Died" (USA, 2016)

Here's what the creatures had to say:

Lord Battle - “Henry Rollins gives an outstanding performance that first comes off as dull and confusing but once you get the into the flow of the character you’ll start to realize how disciplined and dedicated the performance actually is. It’s too bad I can't say the same for any other aspect of this film. The opening sequence features some very confronting stock sound bites that would normally shut half an audience out instantly, then adds in a couple very awkward camera movements, a soundtrack selection that feels like a wannabe Tarantino picked it, and an eye-rolling biblical narrative on vampires. But my main problem: poorly shot action scenes. I can’t express how disappointed I was when Rollins finally got to throw his first punch and the guy receiving it looked like he didn’t feel it. Another way to describe it would be when the punch is off and you get that loud sound effect anyway… To be fair some hits are definitely better than others, but a majority will leaving you wishing this had been a more experienced production. I’d only recommend this film to hardcore action fans or Hardcore punk fans” - 2.5 Stars

The Impostor - "Henry Rollins is perfect in the role of immortal anti hero Jack, who is unpredictable and insanely brutal. He Never Died is a unique story loaded with action, blood, and in your face, cringe worthy violence. Despite the film's dark tone, it's actually quite funny too. This film definitely deserves a cult following. I wish it was being released on bluray but the DVD is still collection worthy." - 4 stars

Speed Demon - "This film absolutely ruled. If you're into revenge/payback films then this is an absolute must own or watch. The main character Jack (Henry Rollins) will have you thinking to yourself, what is up with this guy? He does such an awesome job playing the role. Story-wise it could not have been put together any cooler than it was. Get ready for a film that will stick in your mind for a while and you will highly recommend to your friends. Hell yeah!" - 5 Stars

KillDozer - "Writer/Director Jason Krawczyk is one to watch! Brilliant casting, perfect pacing and a story that doesn't try to reinvent the wheel but instead treats the viewer to a fun new take on an old classic. Watching this, you get the idea that the people responsible know their Horror/Action in such a way that they pay tribute to the greats with every scene. The best part is this film is fun! It is serious without taking itself too seriously if that makes sense. Amazing blasts of action in between witty dialog and character development. Henry Rollins is so solid in this role that you can't imagine anyone else playing the main character. Like I said, keep an eye on Jason Krawczyk as he is destined for greatness." - 5 Stars (Collection Worthy)

Dabbles - "This movie is brilliant. Henry Rollins's role is so entertaining and lovable in a sleazy kind of way. Only nit-picky thing was the sound bed." - 4 Stars

Huntress - Fell Asleep - Default 2 Stars

Math Mage - "It's "Shoot 'em Up" but instead of Bugs Bunny, it's a vampire." - 4 Stars

The Overlook Theatre Final Rating*

(Below is for after you've seen the film)

Henry Rollins kills it as Jack in He Never Died (pun not intended) but what exactly is Jack? As the Math Mage would love to point out, he's a biblical vampire and if this film were going by True Blood rules, there'd be no stopping Jack. Honestly I don't think they were going for a modern vampire story, although any character that's immortal and depicted feeding on humans will fairly conjurer up the consideration.
Jack is reveled to be Kain and yes, the Kain from the bible. I think they've chosen this back story to juxtapose a brutal monster that's lived among humanity for so long that killing carries no emotions for him but not just because he's so old, because he invented murder.

Here's an interview with both Rollins and Jason Krawczyk. You really get to see how excited and dialed in Rollins is to his character.

For those of you who want more from Jack and his indifferent destruction, keep your fingers crossed because the idea is to use the movie as a pilot for a TV show Jason Krawczyk has already written the first season too!


-Lord Battle

*Based on the star ratings turned in by character reviewers, others viewed and got to "Dislike" or "Like" but that does not effect the rating.