Helltown (2017): Cast & Ratings
Helltown is a 2017 historical film directed by Jay Cheel, starring Jorja Cadence as Sarah, Michael Lipka and Joe Buffalo. It runs 1 hour 25 minutes. Its Echo Score is 49/100.
- Released
- Runtime
- 1h 25m (85 min)
- Director
- Jay Cheel
- Genre
- History
- Original language
-
English
- Studio
- Destination America
- After the credits
- No No extra scene
What Is Helltown About?
The premise of Helltown without spoilers.
In 1974, the unusual evacuation of Boston, Ohio, was ordered by President Ford. Numerous theories arose regarding the reason for the sudden relocation, ranging from a concealed chemical spill causing mutations to intense paranormal events and the possibility of a satanic cult controlling the town. The mystery surrounding the event persists, prompting questions about the true nature of what occurred in Helltown.
Helltown Cast & Characters
Jorja Cadence leads the cast as Sarah, with Michael Lipka as Everett McMahon (Younger) and Joe Buffalo as Bill Matwau. Directed by Jay Cheel; 10 actors are credited in all.
- Director Jay Cheel
- Jorja Cadence as Sarah
- Michael Lipka as Everett McMahon (Younger)
- Joe Buffalo as Bill Matwau
- Dave Evans as Paul Wyndham
Also Starring in Helltown
· 6 more- Natasha Krishnan Michelle
- Darren White Terry Greenbaum
- Adam House Frank
- Brandon Terry Everett McMahon
- Derek Bogart Tort
- Hanna Neilson Diane
More from Jay Cheel
More films directed by Jay Cheel, best-rated first: V/H/S/Beyond, How to Build a Time Machine, Beauty Day and A Very Gerry X-Mas!.
Helltown Reviews & Ratings
Our Echo Score gives it 49/100, strongest in art & craft (55) and weakest in rewatch factor (40).
Helltown Echo Score Breakdown
Overall, Helltown delivers a mockumentary experience that divides viewers. While its premise and occasional effective pacing keep some audiences engaged, the pervasive use of fabricated interviews and implausible scenarios undermines its credibility. Critics note the film’s deceptive presentation as a documentary, yet a subset appreciates its entertainment value when approached as fiction. The net effect is a mixed reception that reflects both intrigue and frustration.
Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.
- Art & Craft 55
In terms of art and craft, the film exhibits competent production values, with restrained use of handheld footage that lends a modest sense of realism. However, moments of implausible visual choices—such as a cemetery being mowed—are highlighted as inept. The editing maintains a steady flow, yet the overall aesthetic oscillates between functional and occasionally amateurish, resulting in a middling craft assessment.
- Character & Emotion 45
When evaluating character and emotional depth, performances are described as uneven. Some reviewers find the acting average and occasionally engaging, while others criticize it as over‑dramatic and unconvincing, especially given the actors posing as real people. The lack of authentic chemistry and the artificial nature of interviews limits emotional resonance, leading to a modest character rating.
- Story & Flow 50
The story’s structure offers a loosely coherent narrative that sustains interest for some viewers, with a plot considered relatively good by a few. Yet many point out the absurd premises and fabricated facts, which disrupt plausibility and diminish narrative credibility. Pacing is steady enough to prevent boredom, but the overall originality is marred by its deceptive storytelling.
- Sensory Experience 55
Regarding sensory experience, the film’s sound design and visual style remain largely unremarkable. Minimal reliance on overt cellphone footage contributes to a cleaner visual presentation, though the lack of distinctive soundtrack or striking cinematography limits impact. The sensory elements support the mockumentary façade without elevating the viewing experience, resulting in an average sensory score.
- Rewatch Factor 40
The rewatch factor appears limited for most viewers. While a segment of the audience may enjoy revisiting the film as a tongue‑in‑cheek mockumentary, the pervasive fake documentary premise and perceived low intelligence appeal deter repeat viewings. Consequently, the film’s lasting appeal and replay value are assessed as low to modest.
Seen Helltown?
Helltown FAQ: Cast, Runtime & Release Date
Runtime, release date, director, cast and post-credit scenes of Helltown, each answered in a sentence.
How long is Helltown?
Helltown runs 1 hour 25 minutes (85 minutes).
When was Helltown released?
Helltown was released on October 29, 2017.
Who directed Helltown?
Helltown was directed by Jay Cheel.
More films by Jay Cheel Who is in the cast of Helltown?
Helltown stars Jorja Cadence as Sarah, Michael Lipka as Everett McMahon (Younger) and Joe Buffalo as Bill Matwau, among 10 credited actors.
Does Helltown have a post-credit scene?
No. Helltown has no extra scene during or after the credits.
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