“CM Punk new horror movie” Night Patrol debuts with a gripping story set in a Los Angeles housing project, where residents face off against a gang of vampire police officers. The film, opening in theatres on January 16, uses the horror genre not just to thrill, but to address deep divisions within American society, especially racism and tensions between police and civilians.
Complex Themes and Unsettling Questions
CM Punk, known for his wrestling career, takes the lead role in Night Patrol, immersing himself in a story where the lines between authority and community are sharply drawn. During a recent conversation with Big Gold Belt Media’s Nagier Chambers, Punk discussed how the film tackles several layered messages. The narrative pits regular citizens against powerful forces, shining a spotlight on the clash between people and government. The movie also depicts neighborhood conflicts, such as the rivalry between Crips and Bloods, while questioning what happens when the supposed protectors turn into a ‘gang within a gang’ by focusing on corrupt police officers.
“I think it’s pretty obvious, you know? We’re talking about systemic racism. This movie talks about different cultures converging and trying to preserve different cultures, how different cultures go about that,”
CM Punk explained. CM Punk—Lead Actor
“We’re talking about the people versus the government. We’re talking about Crips versus Bloods, cops versus gangs, the gang within the gang of police. There’s a lot going on.”
CM Punk—Lead Actor
Emphasizing Power and the People
“I think the biggest thing, more importantly, that this movie explores, is the relationship between law enforcement authority, government and the people.”
CM Punk—Lead Actor
The movie’s director, Ryan Prows, praised CM Punk for his dedication on set, noting that Punk brought a side of his persona unfamiliar to wrestling fans. Prows hinted in an interview with WrestleZone that audiences could look forward to seeing Punk in situations and character moments never before seen during his time on WWE TV.
Significance and Audience Reaction
By using the horror and action genres, Night Patrol challenges viewers to reflect on institutional racism and conflicts between civilians and law enforcement. The film is poised to spark discussions on these societal issues as it premieres, drawing interest not only from fans of CM Punk but also from those interested in movies that confront modern power struggles head-on.
