5-The Wretched
In 2020, directors Brett and Drew T. Pierce released their horror film, The Wretched, which has been well received by audiences and critics alike. The film follows Ben, a teenager whose parents are going through a divorce, and who has been sent to live with his father for the summer in lakeside Michigan. As he begins his new job at a local marina, he also begins to notice strange happenings in the woods near his father’s house. Soon, he discovers that an ancient, flesh-eating witch is on the loose, and he must find a way to stop her before she destroys everything in her path.
The Pierce brothers’ film captures the essence of classic horror movies from the 1990s, such as The Faculty, while also adding their own unique twist. The Wretched avoids relying solely on nostalgia, and instead focuses on building tension through practical effects and creature design. The movie is not afraid to get gruesome when necessary, but it also knows when to hold back, relying on subtle scares that create a sense of unease and tension throughout.
One of the film’s greatest strengths is its ability to create a balance between horror and humor. While the subject matter is undeniably dark, the Pierce brothers infuse The Wretched with a sense of fun that makes it an enjoyable ride. Despite the occasional scares and gore, the film never takes itself too seriously and maintains a playful tone that keeps the audience engaged.
The Wretched also boasts a strong cast, with John-Paul Howard delivering a standout performance as Ben. He perfectly captures the angst and confusion of a teenager dealing with his parents’ divorce while also trying to save the town from a malevolent force. Piper Curda is also excellent as Mallory, the cool girl who catches Ben’s eye, and Azie Tesfai provides a solid supporting turn as Liam’s new girlfriend, Sara.
Overall, The Wretched is a fun, spooky, and entertaining horror film that manages to stay fresh while paying homage to classic genre tropes. The Pierce brothers show a deft hand at balancing scares and humor, and the practical effects and creature design are impressive. The movie’s small-town setting and relatable characters make it a relatable watch, even for those who aren’t typically fans of horror movies. It’s a well-crafted film that showcases the Pierce brothers’ talents and bodes well for their future projects.
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