Weekend Warriors kicks off with an unsuspecting start, introducing Scottie, a stereotypical school nerd who faces daily torment from the class bully. Desperate to escape his miserable reality, Scottie, along with his younger sister Jamie, eagerly embarks on a camping trip in the mountains with their Uncle Joey (expertly portrayed by Jason London), seeking refuge from suburban chaos. Little do they know, their wilderness adventure takes an unexpected turn, leading them into the company of former felons and the leader’s girlfriend, challenging their expectations.
This group of “weekend warriors” embraces the thrill of a survival game, utilizing highly impactful paintball guns for a intense stalking and hunting experience. Under the commanding leadership of Wesley (played convincingly by Daniel de Weldon), the ex-convicts form a brotherhood with strict loyalty, guided by fear and force. As Uncle Joey’s directives place the kids in the background, Wesley pushes the men to engage in a game with a brutal edge.
A minor deception sparks a jealous rage in Wesley, transforming the hunt into a bloody battle for survival. De Weldon’s portrayal of the antagonist is compelling, as he sheds all inhibitions against harming the witnessing kids. With each force of nature, the chances of survival for the group seem increasingly bleak, with De Weldon stealing and demanding the spotlight.
Corbin Bernsen’s return adds to the film’s allure, portraying the town sheriff who intervenes to rescue the imperiled kids as they navigate through the woods, evading the blood-thirsty hunters.
The tension in Weekend Warriors, skillfully written by Greer, doesn’t solely rely on the kill scenes but rather on the immediate lack of empathy for the traumatized kids experiencing betrayal. Wesley’s ruthless decision to eliminate Scottie and Jamie becomes the focal point, with murder being a secondary concern. The brotherhood relentlessly pursues them, akin to wild boars on the loose, creating a gripping narrative.
While some may find the focus on the overacted children challenging, the film remains a thrilling experience for those who relish woodland treks, cat-and-mouse chases, and unexpected encounters like a bear attack. In comparison to The Revenant, Weekend Warriors stands as a gripping cinematic adventure that will captivate thrill-seekers.