The Fanatic (2020) Review

Directed By:

Starring: John Travolta, Devon Sawa & Ana Golja

Synopsis: Screen legend John Travolta (The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story, Pulp Fiction) stars as Moose, a celebrity obsessed fan who feels slighted by his favourite movie star at an autograph convention. He quickly embarks on an unhinged quest to get a response, leading to a home invasion and a very long night that changes both men irreparably.

Written and directed by Limp Bizkit frontman Fred Durst (The Education of Charlie Banks) and co-starring Devon Sawa (Final Destination) and Ana Golja (Degrassi: Next Class), The Fanatic is a tense and suspenseful thriller which boasts a commanding central performance from Travolta. 

Review: Devon Sawa and John Travolta lead this thriller. Firstly, I am surprised this movie wasn’t bigger than a simple DTV release. Travolta is back on top form and plays the role of ‘Moose’ to perfection. ‘Moose’ seems to have autism or a learning difficulty and John Travolta plays the part to such believability. It was a true reminder of how good an actor John Travolta is. It was also cool to see a thriller delve into mental health.

Devon Sawa plays Hollywood actor Hunter Dunbar. He comes across as quite an asshole. But I don’t know if it’s because before we meet him we are introduced to John Travolta’s ‘Moose’, who really does have a hard time and is constantly down on his luck, that we really do want to look out for him and almost feel protective of him. Devon Sawa’s performance was amazing. It really does come across like him and John were bringing there game to this movie.

Ana Golja plays reporter Leah who is friends with ‘Moose’, she looks out for him and is trying to help him meet Hunter Dunbar. She has all his best interests at heart. Her character was very likeable to and the bond between her and ‘Moose’ really came together. Golja and Travolta really were a good combo.

There is also a scene where ‘Moose’ Dons a Jason Voorhees mask was quite chilling.

Fred Durst (Limp Bizkit) wrote and directed the movie and I have to say he packaged together a great movie, the pacing of the movie was spot on, not once did my eyes leave the screen. Durst kept the ball rollin’ (couldn’t resist).

Another highlight was references to other movies, just Easter Eggs scattered throughout. I probably missed loads but I picked up on Friday The 13th, The Shining, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Reservoir Dogs, Night Of The Living Dead and Eminem’s Stan… To name a few.

The Fanatic is an enjoyable thriller, with solid suspense and chills, fuelled with gripping nail biting moments. Travolta is back on top form and proves he is still a heavy hitter. Devon Sawa brings in a strong performance, I couldn’t imagine anyone else paying the part of Hunter, Sawa has that screen presence that makes him. And his characters memorable. I can’t wait to see what he does next as Jarhead and Escape Plan were awesome.

I would recommend to anyone!! 5 stars all the way. Suspenseful, nail biting and Great performances! Hats off to the cast and Fred Durst! Top Job.