The Christopher Lloyd Underrated Horror Movie On Streaming That Will Scare You Silly
Released in 2016, I Am Not a Serial Killer is a distinct horror film featuring the acclaimed Christopher Lloyd, best known as Doc Brown from the Back to the Future trilogy. His performance is a key attraction, though the movie has numerous intriguing facets. If you’ve been hesitant to watch it, now’s the perfect opportunity as the movie is streaming for free on Tubi.
Based on Dan Well’s 2009 novel of the same name, I Am Not a Serial Killer, set in a small Midwestern town, follows John Wayne Cleaver (Max Records), a teenager with sociopathic tendencies. Amidst his struggle to suppress his dark urges, he discovers that his elderly neighbor, Mr. Crowley (Christopher Lloyd), is a supernatural serial killer preying on the townsfolk. The tension escalates as John confronts his own morbid curiosity and Mr. Crowley’s increasingly deadly actions.
Critics lauded Lloyd for stepping out of his comedic comfort zone and delivering a truly riveting performance.
Irish writer and director Billy O’Brien, known for his 2006 horror film Isolation, collaborated with co-writer Christopher Hyde to adapt Well’s novel for the screen. Robbie Ryan contributed as both a producer and director of photography. The production team also included O’Brien, Nick Ryan, James Harries, and Mark Lane.
Principal photography for I Am Not a Serial Killer commenced on February 28, 2015, in the town of Virginia, Minnesota, located on the Mesabi Iron Range, despite the book being set in North Dakota. This location was chosen due to incentives from the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board, which can reimburse up to almost $93,000 of eligible production costs.
After filming concluded on March 20, the team moved to other Minnesota cities like Saint Paul and Golden Valley for scenes set during the fall, utilizing local extras.
Christopher Lloyd stars in I am not a Serial Killer, which is free to stream on Tubi.
I Am Not a Serial Killer was produced on a $1.45 million budget, backed by the Irish Film Board, The Fyzz Facility, and Quickfire Films. It debuted at the South by Southwest Film Festival on March 13, 2016. On August 26, it saw a limited theatrical release alongside availability on video on demand.
The movie garnered a positive reception from critics upon its release. While many praised the film for its unique take on the horror genre, it was Christopher Lloyd’s outstanding performance that was frequently highlighted. Critics lauded Lloyd for stepping out of his comedic comfort zone and delivering a truly riveting performance.
While the cast of I Am Not a Serial Killer boasts several skilled performers, including Max Records, Laura Fraser, and Christina Baldwin, it’s Christopher Lloyd who steals the show. Known primarily for his comedic roles, Lloyd delivers a chillingly nuanced portrayal of Mr. Crowley. His ability to inject vulnerability into such a dark character showcases his vast acting range.
Interestingly, Christopher Lloyd’s real-life exercise routine inspired a memorable scene in the film featuring his character, Mr. Crowley. Director Billy O’Brien, struck by the eerie quality of Lloyd’s movements, incorporated them into the movie. This particular footage is now regarded as an iconic moment in the film.
Although I Am Not a Serial Killer is the first in Dan Wells’ series of books, there are no plans to adapt the remaining installments to film. This is partly due to the movie’s independent nature. It’s also worth noting that Mr. Crowley met his end in both the film and the book, making Christopher Lloyd’s return for a potential sequel highly improbable.
Christopher Lloyd at 84
Making his participation in a sequel to I Am Not a Serial Killer even less likely is the fact that since its 2016 release, Christopher Lloyd’s schedule has been extremely packed. The 84-year-old actor has graced episodes of renowned television shows like NCIS, The Connors, and The Mandalorian. Moreover, he’s taken roles in films such as The Tender Bar, Nobody, and One by One.
Christopher Lloyd is actively managing multiple projects this year. He’s slated to star in the television shows Knuckles and Tooned Out. Additionally, his upcoming films include Camp Hideout and the Adam Sigal-directed Nandor Fodor and the Talking Mongoose.
Christopher Lloyd, with over 250 credits to his name, remains deeply committed to his acting career. Among his vast filmography, his haunting performance in I Am Not a Serial Killer stands out as one of his best. This gripping film is available to stream for free on Tubi.
