Though I doubt few outside the world of horror have heard the name “Jim Mickle” this NYU educated writer-director has in ten years already carved out an impressive filmography. Breaking out with the low budget Mulberry Street in 2006, Mickle has since made three films; Stake Land, We Are What We Are and Cold in July, all of which have been well reviewed. I think it’s time some of us take note not only of the quality of Mickle’s films but the content. I can’t remember the last time I watched films from a horror director who spent so much time on character development. Mickie’s characters are never props to the actions or monster bait with targets pinned to their backs. They are living, breathing people with defined motivations and fleshed out personalities. Perhaps one of Mickle’s best examples of this is the 2010 film Stake Land. Although it may sound like a gory vampire romp (and it is occasionally) the film flashes a few moments of brilliance.
