The wait is over! October 24th brought the release of the highly anticipated psychological horror film, Shelby Oaks, and the answer is a resounding “Yes”—you absolutely need to see this movie. Shelby Oaks is a tense film that will keep you guessing right up to its terrifying final moments.
Shelby Oaks grips you from the start, chronicling a desperate search that morphs into a dangerous obsession. When the police dismiss her sister’s disappearance, Mia, played with determined resolve by Camille Sullivan, embarks on a solo mission to find her missing sister, Riley. A mysterious tape leads Mia to crucial new clues, pushing her deeper into an investigation of her own. She must ultimately confront a horrifying possibility: that something chillingly supernatural is at play.
The emotional weight of the film rests squarely on its two leads, and they carry it magnificently. Camille Sullivan delivers an intense, compelling performance as Mia, exuding a steely confidence and unshakable resolve that grounds the desperate search.
Equally fantastic is Sarah Durn, who plays Riley, the missing sister. Durn powerfully conveys trauma, fear, and deep-seated horror, giving the viewer a visceral connection to the character. Both actresses perform amazingly well, making their characters feel honest and deeply sympathetic. Their passionate intensity drives the entire narrative.
Shelby Oaks marks the feature directorial debut of Chris Stuckmann, and we applaud his accomplishment. Stuckmann crafts a film defined by intense tension, a uniquely fascinating story, and multiple twists you won’t see coming. The pacing is a prime example of great timing, carefully unfolding the story to maximize the impact of every revelation.
The film’s atmosphere is palpable. The cinematography beautifully captures a sense of darkness and decay, often showing scenes choked by mold, rot, and general ‘ick.’ While the majority of the special effects look incredibly well done, a few minor CGI elements involving dogs, unfortunately, stood out as slightly disappointing. However, the rest of the film’s visual design is fantastic, contributing heavily to its unsettling tone.
Shelby Oaks keeps the audience on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. It’s a terrifying, thought-provoking film. It lingers long after the credits roll, forcing you to think about the unsettling reality of families searching for lost loved ones and those who have been forgotten.
I highly recommend seeing Shelby Oaks; luckily, you can watch it now on the big screen. Be sure to watch our interview with star Sarah Durn (Riley), who gives us insight into the film and her role.
