The Wretched Review

There is an obvious joy in being scared within the context of storytelling. As a species, we seek out movies, hoping to get a taste of artificial adventure. In the case of the horror genre, we get to experience evil at its finest, but everything is okay, because it’s not real life. In a reality that can often feel so straightforward, a good horror movie can be a great night out, pushing us into a refreshing realm of existence.

Falling into the enjoyable category previously mentioned, “The Wretched” is a film that horror fans should seek out. While not in the same league as other small scale horror hits, like “Halloween” (1978), “The Evil Dead” (1981) and “Saw” (2004), the Pierce Brothers latest flick is a solid example of low budget filmmaking. Made well by a talented crew who possesses a clear love of fantastical storytelling, “The Wretched’s” utilization of story is compelling, with clear nods to neighborly curiosity and the homely dangers that reside within seemingly normal and harmless environments. Like many thriller oriented flicks, much is owed to Alfred Hitchcock, a true master of suspense who took an interest in these concepts.

“The Wretched” follows a troubled young boy who has recently come to a small town to stay with his father. The divorce of his parents remains a defining moment within his short life, but as his stay progresses, the boy encounters an ancient witch, one that transcends any problem that came before. With shades of Hitchcock’s “Rear Window” (1954), the boy takes an interest in his neighbors, watching them from a short distance. As an ancient witch targets members of the community, the film delves into her frightening capabilities, feeling like a close relative to Don Siegel’s “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” (1956).

Surprisingly, this movie also feels like a spiritual partner to R.L. Stine’s “Goosbumps” series. It has a simple, small town vibe that’s easy to get behind. It’s sense of restraint creates a great deal of excitement, simultaneously generating an abundance of macabre-like anticipation. The characters are relatable, brought to life by consistent performers who take the material seriously. And best of all, no one sticks out like a sore thumb, at least not when it comes to the main cast. The end result is an atmosphere that feels both eerie and simplistically cozy.

Whereas certain horror flicks bash us over the head with tasteless gore that takes away from the narrative anchors, “The Wretched” takes pride in its ability to focus on characters. Even though these characters fall into the category of recycled characterization, they strike a chord, allowing us to latch onto relatable themes, such as trust, abandonment and parental relationships. These real world elements lay the groundwork for what’s to come: the destruction of a small community, often thought to be the spitting image of safety.

As the evil grows, the practical effects work stands out, delivering bits of gory goodness that enhance the monster’s mystique. Unfortunately though, as the film moves forward, the nastier bits are held back, giving us a climax that lacks the ferociousness promised beforehand. Even the witch falls prey to a clear minimization of authority and legitimacy. As the kids run for their lives at the tail end of the third act, the evil entity moves slowly and without purpose, giving them every chance to escape. This type of cop out draws more attention to the witch’s convoluted mythology, which makes you question the legend at large.

Clearly, I recommend “The Wretched.” If you’re hesitant to go to the theater, it’s available on streaming platforms. If you’re up for big screen entertainment and live in the Tri-State area, it is currently playing at Teays Valley Cinemas in Scott Depot, West Virginia.

My Grade:

Good (Level 3)