He’s a bit of a loner, but his life is turned upside down when a mysterious woman (played by a relatively unknown actress) walks into his gym. She’s a fan of his wrestling, and her presence sparks a series of events that will change the evil that has been lurking in the shadows.

The Setup

The film opens with a montage of wrestling matches, showcasing the grit and intensity of the sport. We see Rusty’s wrestlers in action, their sweat-drenched bodies contorting in impossible ways as they grapple for dominance. The camera work is frenetic, capturing the raw energy of the matches. As the montage ends, we’re introduced to Rusty, a ruggedly handsome man in his mid-30s, who’s struggling to keep his gym afloat.

The Mysterious Woman

Enter the mysterious woman, played by a relatively unknown actress. She’s a fan of Rusty’s wrestling, and her presence sparks a series of events that will change the evil that has been lurking in the shadows. At first, Rusty is wary of her, but as she continues to visit the gym, he begins to see her in a different light. She’s charming, intelligent, and seems to have a deep understanding of the sport.

The film’s tone is inconsistent, veering wildly between slapstick comedy and dark, gritty realism.

The Beans Troupe: A Solid but Unremarkable Group of Characters

The Beans troupe, consisting of a group of eccentric and lovable misfits, is the heart of the film. Each member brings their unique personality and quirks to the table, making them relatable and endearing to the audience. However, despite their individual charm, the group’s dynamics and interactions are often predictable and lack depth.

The cinematography is gritty and raw, with a focus on practical effects and a muted color palette. The film’s score is equally as nostalgic, with a pulsating electronic beat that perfectly complements the on-screen action.

The Aesthetic of a Grindhouse Classic

The aesthetic of “Dean” is unmistakably that of a grindhouse classic. The film’s use of practical effects, muted color palette, and gritty cinematography all contribute to a look that is reminiscent of the low-budget exploitation films of the 1970s and 1980s. The film’s score, with its pulsating electronic beat, adds to the overall sense of nostalgia and retro flair. Key elements of the aesthetic: + Practical effects + Muted color palette + Gritty cinematography + Pulsating electronic score

The Influence of 80s Grindhouse

The influence of 80s grindhouse can be seen in the film’s use of graphic violence, sex, and exploitation themes. The film’s depiction of these elements is raw and unapologetic, much like the films of the era.