There are a variety of elements that go into the creation of a film. While story and characters usually reign supreme, production design and visuals often play an important role. However, a fantastic facade is only worth so much without a captivating script. Directed by Sion Sono, Prisoners of the Ghostland is a movie that is too in love with its own absurdity. Simply put, this is an unfortunate example of style over substance.

In the realm of horror, pushing the boundaries of believability needs to be done in a precise fashion if the results are going to be successful. With the right creator at the wheel, an outlandish concept will offer audiences an experience that they will never forget. Directed by James Wan, Malignant is pure cinematic insanity brought to life by a plot that needs to be seen to be believed. While the film will be too ridiculous for some, others will surely adore this violent affair.

We live in a world where violence is all too common. Appearing in a variety of shapes and forms, the brutality of man has been instilled in our species for centuries. The barbaric nature of some individuals has certainly been explored in many films and will likely be analysed for a long time to come. Written and directed by Lyle Mitchell Corbine Jr, Wild Indian is an excellent examination of childhood trauma and its consequences. Led by some fascinating characters, this fast-paced portrait of violence will have viewers absorbed for the full runtime.

Society’s fascination with serial killers is not a new phenomenon. People have always been interested in the evil that certain men are able to do. This obsession has resulted in countless depictions of sequential murderers in various forms of media. No matter how much time is passed, the most famous homicidal individuals still get their time in the spotlight, for better or worse. Directed by Amber Sealey, No Man of God successfully immerses us into the mind of Ted Bundy without needing to depict his killings. Focused on dialogue and performances, this is an exceptionally engaging dissection of a serial killer.

A film set in a single location can often allow for fantastic character development. However, it is up to the creators to utilise the setting and its strengths, as a limited environment will disappoint many viewers if it doesn’t have an impressive story. Directed by Sean King O’Grady, We Need to Do Something attempts to convey a frightening scenario but gives us very little reason to be continuously scared. Poorly paced and driven by unlikable characters, a few effective moments aren’t enough to save this dull attempt at horror.