Satanic Soccer Mom from Ohio - a Review
With a title as intriguing as Satanic Soccer Mom from Ohio, expectations are understandably high. This film, a joyfully irreverent blend of suburban satire and horror comedy, marks the latest offering from director and co-writer Kyle Rayburn. I had the privilege of receiving a copy for review, and while I endeavor to maintain objectivity in my assessment, it’s worth noting my liking of Rayburn. Having talked with him on the podcast and how he approaches his films, you can’t help but like him.
The story centers around Annie (portrayed by Gracie Hayes-Plazolles), a woman striving to maintain her sanity in suburban Ohio. Following her husband’s (Jason Crowe) mysterious disappearance after a lottery win, Annie faces the dual challenge of raising her children alone and navigating the minefield of neighborhood gossip. Amidst her struggles to manage domestic duties and evade the judgmental scrutiny of the local “Karens,” led by the formidable Karen Green (Valerie Gilbert), Annie’s life takes an odd turn with the accidental summoning of Balthazar (Brian Papandrea), a horned demon ready to offer her three wishes at a steep price. Contrary to what one might anticipate, Satanic Soccer Mom from Ohio adopts a more subdued approach. Its laid-back aura and gently ironic humor suggest a resemblance to a “stoner hangout” film rather than a narrative steeped in demonic lore and eternal damnation. Nonetheless, the film’s light-hearted, quirky charm has the potential to resonate with audiences seeking an uncomplicated, entertaining comedy.
Satanic Soccer Mom from Ohio exudes an effortless charm, characterized by its affable, laid-back demeanor that encourages viewers to embrace the film’s whimsical nature without overanalyzing it. allows audiences to sync with the film’s rhythm, experiencing the day-to-day interactions and solidarity among characters. Despite the outlandish elements, the film maintains a grounded sense of reality, much like the quirky blend of the fantastical with the mundane seen in the cult Adult Swim series Your Pretty Face is Going to Hell. The movie shines by portraying ordinary conflicts—overcoming heartbreak, balancing adult responsibilities, and asserting one’s autonomy—against a backdrop of extraordinary circumstances. The inversion of typical narrative stakes, where the antics of deceitful neighbors pose a greater challenge to Annie than a literal demon, adds a layer of humor and relatability.
The film’s portrayal of characters dealing with their dilemmas in a stoic, unflustered manner contributes significantly to its appeal, proving that a well-executed indie film can captivate audiences with character-driven storytelling and a modest runtime of 80 minutes.
