Story

A “Header” is defined, in the movie, as “The worst revenge tactic conceivable” or “an eye for an eye.”  To further quote the deranged duo “after all, that’s what the bible says don’t it?” What Header really turns out to be is a practical joke played by Edward Lee, the author of the original short story on which the movie is based.

When he was approached to option one of his stories, he decided to test the sense of humor of the producers involved by sending them a few more stories, with one of his most depraved tales as a chaser.  (A recollection that is told along with many others in the extensive and hilarious special features.) At its core, the flick is two stories that slowly blend together climaxing in an intensely satisfying finale that you have to see to believe.

Originality

What is a Header?  That was the question burning in the back of my mind (like a hot drill perhaps?) when my wife asked me to keep an eye out for the DVD after she realized it was listed on her favorite author’s (Jack Ketchum of The Lost, The Girl Next Door, and The Offspring fame) IMDB page.  The more I tried to research the movie, instead of going with a blind buy, the more the same question continued to surface. Adding fuel to that fire, of course, is the official website www.whatsaheader.com and all I can say is, it’s an original concept for a change.

Gore/Special Effects

I have to give props to Terry Radowski and his team for their truly disturbing makeup effects, they come fresh out of the school of Savini and it shows, way to go boys!

Lasting Appeal

Unfortunately, this is where the good times end and soon after the movie begins to fall flaccid. Though I’m not a fan of “handy-cam” movies, it wasn’t the biggest downfall. In the hands of a more schlocky director this would have been “beers ‘n buddies” gold, instead director Archibald Flancranstin decides to take his feature far too seriously for such a ridiculous premise leaving it best described as a badly acted, uncomfortable lesson in back woods justice. If you enjoy testing your gag reflex or want to see how far you can go before you hit the wall that nothing ever shocks you again check this one out.

Final Head Count

To sum up, I leave you with this question “What is a Header?” Go ‘Header’ out and see for yourself, if you dare. My wife found out and not only couldn’t continue to watch, but she may “never be the same again!” (her words)