A flock of ravens contract mad cow's disease and turn into vicious carnivorous beasts who attack the populace of a sleepy small town. A handful of folks who include the stalwart Police Chief Wayne Merkle (a solid Sean Patrick Flanery), amiable physician Doc (winningly played by Rod Taylor), and recovering alcoholic school bus driver Clyde (the excellent Stephen McHattie) do their best to survive this harrowing ordeal. Director Sheldon Wilson, working from a smart, tight script by Benjamin Sztajnkrycer, relates the absorbing story at a steady pace, maintains a serious tone throughout (there's a refreshing absence of any silly humor), and effectively builds a considerable amount of suspense. The tense gradual build-up of the opening act eventually culminates in an especially harrowing and exciting last third. Moreover, the ravens are genuinely creepy, the explanation for the birds' violent behavior is both plausible and topical, the CGI effects are surprisingly decent and acceptable, and there's a handy helping of grisly gore (the mangled victims of the bird attacks look pretty nasty). Nice supporting performances by Kristin Booth as Wayne's caring wife Cynthia, John Ralston as superstitious Mennonite farmer Oskar, Michelle Duquet as friendly diner owner Betty, Ashley Newbrough as mean teen Doris, Gray Powell as eager deputy Stan, Vladimir Bondarenko as strict farmer Jacob, Megan Park as Oskar's sweet daughter Gretchen, and Wendy Lyon as perky police dispatcher Luanne. Both John Tarver's polished cinematography and Steven London's shuddery score are up to speed. An enjoyable fright feature.
Review of Kaw
