Filmmakers Robert Christopher Smith and Rob Banks have released their first collaborative film 'SPREAD: Pigs to Slaughter', a politically charged slasher thriller that examines contemporary social tensions through a provocative narrative.
The film, co-written by Smith and artist Kurt Belcher, explores the aftermath of COVID-19 lockdowns while offering a metaphorical critique of current political polarization. Set against the backdrop of post-pandemic society, the movie follows a group of twenty-somethings whose weekend getaway turns deadly when one member secretly plans to eliminate the entire group.
Central to the film's narrative is 'Hamson: The Curious Pig', a character that serves as a symbolic commentary on political appropriation and societal fragmentation. The creators deliberately avoided directly naming specific political figures, instead using symbolic imagery like pig masks and strategic tattoos to convey their thematic message.
Smith describes the film as a hybrid between 'The Big Chill' and 'Scream', suggesting a blend of dark comedy and psychological thriller that addresses complex social dynamics. The project emerges from the filmmakers' frustration with what they perceive as a disturbing slide toward political extremism and social disintegration.
Notably, the film represents the first official release from Roberts Next Door LLC, the entertainment company Smith and Banks formed in December 2023. Their collaboration, which began in an acting class, has evolved into a creative partnership focused on challenging contemporary narrative perspectives.
By using genre filmmaking as a vehicle for social commentary, 'SPREAD: Pigs to Slaughter' offers audiences a visceral exploration of current political tensions, demonstrating how genre cinema can serve as a powerful medium for cultural critique.
