Film fans looking for something different to watch this week may want to add a Scottish comedy horror to their streaming list, particularly if they enjoy dark humour and unexpected twists. Set against the backdrop of the Scottish Highlands, the film combines a wilderness adventure with a sinister hunting game, as four teenagers find themselves in a fight for survival.
Despite its unusual premise, the movie has earned glowing reviews from viewers, with many praising its quirky humour, original storyline and memorable characters.
A Unique Scottish Adventure
The film, Get Duked!, originally went by the title Boyz in the Wood when it premiered in 2019. Released on Prime Video in August 2020, the film blends dark comedy, hip-hop and social satire into a unique Scottish adventure.
The story follows four teenagers from Glasgow, who are sent on a Duke of Edinburgh expedition through the Highlands. Dean, Duncan and aspiring rapper DJ Beatroot are taking part as punishment after setting fire to their school's toilet, while straight-laced Ian hopes the trip will boost his university application.
However, their outdoor adventure takes a terrifying turn when they discover they are being hunted by a wealthy, masked couple, the Duke and Duchess, who treat the teenagers as part of a deadly game.
Star-Studded Cast and Viewer Reviews
The film boasts a star-studded Scottish cast including River City star Rian Gordon and Glasgow actor Lewis Gribben, who previously won a Scottish BAFTA for best TV actor after his performance in the Channel 4 show, Somewhere Boy. Other Scottish talent includes the iconic James Cosmo and Call the Midwife's Georgie Glen. Comedian Suzy Eddie Izzard also plays a role in the film.
The film has attracted enthusiastic reviews on IMDb, with one viewer giving it 10 out of 10 stars and describing it as "underrated". They wrote: "This is going to be a cult classic! This was hilarious and enjoyable to watch!"
Another viewer compared the comedy to two well-known British cult favourites, writing: "The League of Gentlemen meets Trainspotting". They continued: "Wanted to hate this, thought id give it a run out, and boy oh boy!!! what a funny quirky little horror!!! 4 misfits orienteering for a duke of Edinburgh award run into a couple of mishaps and a married couple of the upper class gentry."
"Focussing on class, culture and youth, with a strong undercurrent of friendship and loyalty! A great watch, Royston Vasey meets Trainspotting!! watch it!!!!"
A third viewer was equally impressed, declaring it their favourite movie and praising its originality. Their review read: "Hilarious and super original, wish there were more movies like this." Meanwhile another said: "Compelling characters, campy writing, funny jokes and just a sprinkle of social commentary that made it just a bit funnier without being overbearing."
Where to Watch
For anyone after a film that mixes Scottish scenery with absurd comedy, horror and a healthy dose of social satire, it could be worth adding to the watchlist. Get Duked! is available to stream on Prime Video at no additional cost for subscribers.
