The Rules: Sex, Lies and Serial Killers is an inspiring piece of new writing.
This is an incredible piece of new writing, taking an interesting concept and shaping it into something that doesn’t stop evolving. Each character has a disturbingly likeable personality, with impeccable comic timing and a sharp wit that makes it all the more disconcerting when they transformed into the frightening and malevolent figures that gave them their serial killer credentials. To switch so effortlessly between these very radical changes in character is a commendable achievement by each member of the cast, particularly Mel, who with a snap of her fingers changes from a snarling, contorting fit of rage to the natural disposition of a seemingly ordinary businesswoman.
Across the board the performances are wonderful. Each character is clearly marked with a specific personality trait, but all share the core of evil and hatred underneath it all. The play between these two states and the perfect blend of comedy and suspense will have you on the edge of your seat one minute and heartily laughing the next. The Rules: Sex Lies and Serial Killers possesses a rare ability to switch effortlessly, adding much to the unsettling atmosphere of the whole aesthetic.
Sometimes revelations can be predicted before they happen, but that fails to undermine the hilarity or horror of the impact, and others are intricately weaved across the script, only to be tied up towards the end without any real effect. The ending too, was a little sudden, suffering a rather rapid jump in character development that made it unexpected. But then again, these are psychopaths. They are unpredictable.
The Rules: Sex, Lies and Serial Killers is an inspiring piece of new writing, one that is well structured, well scripted, brilliantly acted and exceptionally put together, offering a fantastic addition to the black comedy genre.
