At the Chattanooga Film Festival, Cannibal Mukbang, Aimee Kuge’s directorial debut, made a memorable impression. This horror-comedy uniquely blends the bizarre world of mukbang videos with a chilling narrative, making it a standout feature.
The story follows Mark, a shy man played by Nate Wise, who becomes infatuated with Ash, an enigmatic mukbanger portrayed by April Consalo. Ash’s online persona involves consuming large quantities of food live for her audience, but Mark soon discovers her darker side. Ash hunts and consumes criminals, leading Mark into a horrifying and codependent relationship. The film cleverly uses their addiction to human flesh as a metaphor for substance abuse, adding depth to their twisted romance.
A Festive Bite
During a Q&A session, Sarah Stubbs, Community Manager of the Chattanooga Film Festival, dived into the creation and inspiration behind Cannibal Mukbang with Aimee Kuge.
Kuge’s journey with Mukbang began in 2017 when she discovered the phenomenon online. The idea of millions of viewers watching people eat intrigued her, leading to the creation of her film. To maintain authenticity, the actors used the westernized pronunciation of “mukbang,” which Kuge preferred for consistency and ease during filming.
One of the film’s highlights is its creative food styling. With Ash’s dietary restrictions in mind, the team concocted realistic yet safe edible substitutes. Real cured meats were used alongside inventive creations like Rice Krispie treats dyed with food coloring to mimic more grotesque textures. This attention to detail brought a visceral realism to the horror scenes.
Kuge emphasized the collaborative nature of the project. A notable instance was a scene initially intended for a rooftop that was relocated to an indoor blanket fort due to rain. This change added intimacy and nostalgia, showcasing Kuge’s adaptability and creative vision.
A Surprising Treat
Cannibal Mukbang turned out to be more than just a horror flick, it delivered emotional depth and thematic weight. Kuge skillfully avoided the trap of turning the film into a mere novelty by focusing on the characters’ chemistry and personal struggles. The cinematography impressed with its diverse color palette, enhancing the film’s mood without relying on clichés. The practical effects were both effective and chilling, making the film a memorable experience.
Overall, Cannibal Mukbang is a deliciously depraved horror film that combines humor, gore, and a thoughtful messages. It’s a gory blast from start to finish, offering much more than just shock value by delivering a poignant commentary on addiction and relationships.
Stay tuned for a thrilling virtual celebration of horror at the Chattanooga Film Festival, keeping the horror fans on the edge of their seats until June 28th!
