The Wretched

The Wretched (2019), directed by the Pierce Brothers, is a suspenseful horror film that invites the audience into a world where an ancient witch terrorizes and torments a small summer town. It features a cast of talented actors, including John-Paul Howard, Piper Curda, and Jamison Jones, who breathe life into their respective characters and contribute to the eerie, haunting atmosphere of the film.

The film centres around Ben (John-Paul Howard), a defiant teenage boy going through the difficult transition of his parents' divorce. He has been moved to his father's town for the summer. Struggling to come to terms with his new reality, he begins a summer job at the town marina. His life is soon turned upside down when he uncovers a dreadful secret and finds himself wrestling with terrifying supernatural forces that won’t let go.

At the heart of the story is a malevolent witch, descending from a thousand-year-old curse, who lives in the woods and preys on the children of the town while concealing her actions from their families. As the film unfolds, Ben becomes the only one who can see the terrifying reality behind the forgotten, dark magic plaguing the town and threatening the people he cares for.

Throughout The Wretched, Ben attempts to convince his father, Liam (Jamison Jones), and his newfound friend, Mallory (Piper Curda) of the impending doom lurking around them. The manifestation of his teenage angst is exacerbated by the supernatural battles he faces, as his showdowns against the witch are ignored and dismissed by adult authority.

The Wretched excels in blending elements of horror, mystery, and suspense. It amplifies the tension by playing with audience expectations and fear of the unknown. The movie leverages its blend of crisp cinematography with the rich, unsettling score to push thriller purists to the edge of their seat.

The film appeals to fans of folklore and superstitions, as it starts with a nod to the witch trials and folklore of old, and traces the path into modern times, illustrating how the wrath of a thousand-year-old witch can translate into everyday life. Forget the glamorous, Hollywood version of witches; in this film, the witch is an entity of pure evil, a menacing tormentor that feeds off fear.

Moreover, the movie offers a thought-provoking commentary on family dynamics and teenage anxieties. In particular, it delves into the unique perspective of a child dealing with his parents' divorce, and navigates these issues throughout the supernatural plot.

The Wretched does not merely aim to scare but also attempts to contribute to character development and storytelling. John-Paul Howard provides a commendable performance as the troubled teenager, fighting against supernatural and personal demons. Piper Curda delivers a strong performance as Mallory, creating an enjoyable dynamic with Ben and adding depth to the teenage experience within the film. Jamison Jones, as the non-believing father, adds an extra layer of tension and frustration to the narrative.

The culmination of these nuanced performances, combined with the intricate storyline, chilling atmosphere, and dramatic special effects, makes The Wretched an unnerving yet enjoyable cinematic experience. It is a must for those who appreciate a good, old-fashioned supernatural thriller filled with unexpected twists and formidable villains.

In the final analysis, The Wretched is a stunning independent horror film that introduces aspects of dark folklore into a contemporary summer setting. Its atmospheric storytelling, along with solid performances and jaw-dropping special effects, make for a terrifying supernatural horror film that viewers won't easily forget. The Wretched offers a refreshing orientation of the witch horror-subgenre, revitalizing it with tension, psychological terror, and visually striking, nerve-jangling moments that will resonate with audiences long after viewing.