Not only is The Ranger a return in form to the 90’s slashers but it’s also a glorious revisitation to the punk horrors of the 80’s and Wexler and company capture the tone and look of the period beautifully (helped made possible by the raddest punk/producer Heather Buckley). The cast all look the part, sporting realistic gear and listening to an insane playlist including bands like Rotten U.K., Fang, The Atom Age, and at least a half-dozen more that will have you headbanging along with the characters on screen. The van they travel in is a rolling love letter to Return of The Living Dead and every frame oozes punk aesthetic. The juxtaposition of punk leather and color against the backdrop of the national park is surreal but mesmerizing and you won’t be able to look away. The parallel between this film and Green Room is sure to be made and The Ranger stands shoulder to shoulder with it as a return to punks on film.
