Is Tusk Based on a True Story? Tusk Ending Explained, Plot, Cast, Where to Watch, and Trailer

Is Tusk Based on a True Story?

Yes, “Tusk” is loosely based on a true story. “Tusk,” a disturbing horror-comedy directed by Kevin Smith, is loosely inspired by a fake online ad that offered a rent-free room in exchange for occasionally dressing up and behaving like a walrus. The ad, created by Chris Parkinson, received over 400 responses. However, the movie’s premise takes a fictional turn, introducing characters like the podcaster Wallace Bryton and the chilling serial killer Howard Howe.

While the initial ad was a prank, Smith, upon hearing it on a podcast, thought it was real and used it as inspiration. The film explores the horrifying concept of a person being surgically transformed into a human-walrus hybrid. While the core idea is rooted in the fake ad, the characters and storyline in “Tusk” are entirely fictional.

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Tusk

“Tusk” is a 2014 American film directed and written by Kevin Smith. It is an independent body horror comedy and psychological thriller with a runtime of 101 minutes. The story revolves around an arrogant podcaster (Justin Long) who travels to Canada for an interview but encounters an eccentric retired sailor (Michael Parks) with dark plans linked to his obsession with a walrus named Mr. Tusk.

The film had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival and was later released on September 19, 2014, by A24. Starring Michael Parks, Justin Long, Haley Joel Osment, Genesis Rodriguez, Lily-Rose Depp, and Johnny Depp, “Tusk” received mixed reviews. While some praised its atmosphere and production values, others criticized its inconsistent tone. The movie, part of Kevin Smith’s planned True North trilogy, includes “Yoga Hosers” (2016) as its sequel. Despite mixed reviews, “Tusk” has gained a cult status among some circles online. 

Tusk Ending Explained

The ending of “Tusk” sees Wallace Bryton transformed into a walrus after a gruesome ordeal orchestrated by the deranged Howard Howe. A year later, Wallace, now living as a walrus, resides in a wildlife sanctuary. Ally and Teddy, who had an affair and ignored Wallace’s pleas for help, visit him. In a poignant moment, Ally feeds Wallace a mackerel and tearfully expresses her enduring love.

Wallace responds with cries, suggesting a hint of retained humanity. The film’s conclusion is both chilling and emotional, exploring the consequences of obsession, the macabre consequences of Howard’s actions, and the enduring impact on the characters involved. “Tusk” leaves viewers with a lingering sense of horror and reflection on the blurred lines between humanity and monstrous transformation.

Tusk Plot

“Tusk” follows the story of Wallace Bryton and Teddy Craft, hosts of the podcast “The Not-See Party.” Wallace travels to Canada to interview the Kill Bill Kid but discovers the Kid has died by suicide. Determined to salvage his trip, Wallace responds to a flyer offering free room and interesting stories from retired seaman Howard Howe. After drinking tea laced with secobarbital, Wallace wakes up to find his leg amputated.

Howard reveals his dark plan to turn Wallace into a walrus, recreating his rescue by a walrus named Mr. Tusk. Wallace’s girlfriend, Ally, and Teddy, who are having an affair, ignore his pleas for help. Ally and Teddy eventually learn about Wallace’s predicament and seek assistance from Guy LaPointe, a detective pursuing Howard. Howard, with a traumatic past, has been kidnapping and transforming people into walrus creatures to relive Mr. Tusk’s last day.

In a climactic confrontation, Wallace impales Howard on his tusks, fulfilling Howard’s twisted mission. A year later, Wallace, now a walrus, resides in a sanctuary. Ally and Teddy visit and Ally tearfully expresses her enduring love. Wallace, hinting at retained humanity, responds with cries. The film explores horror, humor, and the macabre, leaving viewers with a chilling tale of transformation and the consequences of obsession.

Tusk Cast

Tusk Review

“Tusk” offers a bizarre and unsettling blend of horror and dark comedy, directed by Kevin Smith. The film follows podcaster Wallace Bryton, played by Justin Long, who undergoes a grotesque transformation at the hands of the eccentric Howard Howe, portrayed by Michael Parks.

While praised for its unique atmosphere and production values, the film received mixed reviews due to its tonal inconsistencies. The shocking premise and disturbing visuals make “Tusk” a polarizing experience, leaving audiences both intrigued and disturbed by its unconventional narrative and graphic depictions.

Where to Watch Tusk?

“Tusk” is currently available to watch on Netflix, offering an accessible option for viewers. Additionally, you have the choice to stream or rent/purchase the movie on Amazon Video. The film, directed and written by Kevin Smith, is a unique blend of horror and dark comedy.

Released in 2014, it stars Justin Long as Wallace Bryton, who undergoes a disturbing transformation at the hands of Michael Parks’ eccentric character, Howard Howe. “Tusk” gained attention for its unconventional plot and graphic scenes, receiving mixed reviews for its unsettling atmosphere and tonal shifts.