Wind Chill. 2007. Tri Star. Reviewed By Brian Kirst

Those looking for a fright fest to drive the cold winter away had better search far away from the frigid horrors of Wind Chill. Those without temperature phobias who are looking for a slightly different Christmas time fear flick - a ghost story that takes place in a car, perhaps - might find much to enjoy here, though.

A young, emotionally complicated college girl (Emily Blunt) accepts a ride share home with a fellow student (Ashton Holmes) for the Christmas holidays. By the time she realizes all is not as it seems with her companion, the two are ploughed into by a reckless driver on a country side ride and find themselves stranded. As temperatures drop and the two discover they are truly not alone, they must fight for survival. The elements, ghostly and otherwise, eventually draw the two together - but it may be far too late for both to claim survival as their own.

Effective script writers Joseph Gangemi and Steven Katz keep things loaded with atmospherics and characterization. They leave their characters nameless, spending their efforts on emotional build-up and slow reveal instead. Credulity is stretched a bit as forgiveness is always forthcoming from the female lead when her male counterpart continually puts them in harm’s way with his deceptions. Still, there is enough tension and intrigue to keep one involved and hoping for the best.

Emily Blunt, with her recent success in The Devil Wears Prada, receives top billing here. Her acting is fine and feisty and she is well met by co-star Ashton Holmes. Both end up creating relatable entities. The changes and strengths they bring out in each other are honestly and passionately exposed. Most interestingly, indie regular Martin Donovan brings out a malevolent energy to his undead villain. His use of hard silence is ultimately as effective as any of the blades on Robert Englund’s Freddy glove. Eagle eye horror fiends will also be thrilled to discover recent genre favorite Chelan Simmons (Final Destination 3, Caved In, Monster Island, Supernatural, Chupacabra Terror) featured in a smaller role.

As for director Gregory Jacobs - he honors his place at the helm by faithfully imbuing the proceedings with a sense of deadly frost and heightened fear. He works fright magic out of his stumbling apparitions and his tight build-up to the finish ultimately produces an ending of surprising emotional depth and heart.