Today marks the release of horror director Barry Jay's Terror Film's movie The Way Out. The brutal film managed to juggle the themes of bloody murder, alcoholism, abuse, and homosexuality. Weaved throughout every bit of the movie is thrilling murder in a way that some audience members may agree with.
The film features a strong cast featuring Sherri Shepherd (Sherri) and Mike Manning (Days of Our Lives, Teen Wolf,) both of which have Emmys they've won in the past. Also featuring Johnny Beauchamp (Penny Dreadful,) and Ashleigh Murray (Riverdale,) the ensemble thriller is full of talent.
The film is about Alex, an abused and recently sober man finding his father murdered and then getting the killer, Shane, unknowingly as his roommate, a person who exacts revenge on abusers, he initially was nothing like the killer, but ultimately took on the impression that Shane pushed him to, and ultimately, like in most horror thrillers, a lot of people die - at least those who "deserve it."
The poster is included above and shows both of the main characters, Alex and Shane, as opposites, touting "Friends don't let friends kill alone," a message that gives away parts of the plot.
We were able to speak with writer and ditector Barry Jay about this multi-themed film and exclusively learned a lot of information. You can see the conversation below or simply scroll down for just a couple of the questions and answers.
Literary Joe: What inspired you to write this film?
Barry Jay: I am a survivor of some pretty bad childhood trauma. And abuse for me is very lonely. I couldn't tell anyone and I think when I started writing, things started coming out. And with years of therapy, nothing has helped me as much as sobriety. I focused on some elements, like the character of Shane to get my message across hopefully in a revenge thriller type way, but Alex really represents myself until I was 25.
Literary Joe: Because there are multiple characters, did you view the story through the lens of the others?
Barry Jay: (Laughs) You know, you ask good questions. It's easy to see my world through other's eyes. And because Alex was representing me, it is easier to see things through Shane's eyes or it was much easier to see things through Veronica and Gracie's eyes, I think because I listen to the voices of reason. And I think Shane stemmed from my anger when I was younger. I don't have it anymore. But I think it was easiest to see through Shane's eyes.
What do you guys think? Will you be taking a peek at this movie tonight, since it's brand new and full of scares? Check out the trailer and synopsis below to know for sure and share your thoughts in the comment section as always!
A young man deals with the loss of his abusive father by taking advice from a charming, dangerous stranger who teaches him about life, sex, and fighting back.
The Way Out releases today via On-Demand.