Review - Hellbender (2022)

Directed by: Toby Poser, John Adams, Zelda Adams

Starring: Zelda Adams, Toby Poser, Lulu Adams

Go Horror Rating: B

I dug the isolation vibe, I dug the 'coming-of-age' story, I dug the overall acting and execution, especially for a budget/DIY film, but I definitely didn't dig the musical interludes. It somehow slowed the pace down, which I think was the opposite of what they were trying to achieve (or maybe it was just shameless branding). Hated the random 'vintage' drumset that was planted beside the pool and how a few teens rocked out to a chick wiggling around and literally only hitting a snare drum. Putting that to the side, the family chemistry and great dialogue between mother and daughter really secured this as a good indie watch. Scenic and unique, yet dark enough without trying too hard.