On October 24, a new horror film titled Shelby Oaks was released. The question is, is it worth the hype that has been building for months? I intend to answer that in this mostly spoiler-free review.
The film follows a woman whose desperate search for her missing sister spirals into a dangerous obsession. After the police do nothing, she sets out to find her. A tape leads her to new clues in her hunt to locate Riley. However, she must confront a horrifying possibility: something supernatural may be at work.
The film has two leads: Sarah Durn as Riley, the missing sister, and Camille Sullivan as Mia. Both actresses deliver passionate, intense performances. Durn’s ability to portray trauma, fear, and horror is absolutely fantastic. Sullivan’s Mia is tough. She’s a determined character who exudes confidence and resolve. Both actresses did an amazing job, making their characters’ struggles and terror feel honest and sympathetic.
Shelby Oaks marks the directorial debut of Chris Stuckmann, and I have to say bravo. He created a film with tension so thick you could cut it with a knife, multiple twists you don’t see coming, and an ending that will leave you in shock. Stuckman delivers an engaging, tension-filled, unique story. Uniqueness goes a long way these days, given that the genre is filled with remakes, reboots, and rip-offs.
The way the story unfolds is an example of great timing. The cinematography is nice. I got the ick watching it. There’s so much darkness and decay, mold, and rot that I was left with the urge to scrub my house from top to bottom. The majority of the special effects are well done; however, a couple of dogs in it don’t look so hot. They are 100% CGI. I found it a bit disappointing. But the rest of the film looks great.
With multiple major twists, this movie will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. After watching it, I couldn’t stop thinking about the real families whose loved ones have gone missing, not knowing if they are alive or dead. And the fact that some missing people are still alive, but their families and police have given up on them. It’s a terrifying thought.
So, back to the original question. Is the movie worth watching? The answer is a resounding yes. Head to theaters now and witness the horrors of Shelby Oaks. For a glimpse inside the film, watch our interview with star Sarah Durn.
