My quick rating - 3.6/10. The flick takes you on a nightmarish journey into the woods, where the line between fairy tales and terrifying reality blurs. The film follows Abi, portrayed by May Kelly, as she undergoes the harrowing process of going cold turkey. In an attempt to aid her recovery, her family isolates themselves in a remote cabin away from the temptations of the city. However, what seems like a promising setup for a gripping creature feature takes a distressing turn into the realms of torture porn. The film's premise, rooted in the macabre fairy tale of The Three Blind Mice, holds the promise of a unique horror experience. The concept of ancient folklore coming to life to haunt unsuspecting victims has intrigued audiences for generations. Sadly, the film fails to live up to this potential and as I mentioned, does a weird turn into a sadistic type of violence. This is one of the most significant drawbacks, its reliance on shock value through excessive gore and torture. The transition from a creature feature to a graphic display of violence feels forced and gratuitous, leaving you confused rather than genuinely frightened. This shift might appeal to a niche audience seeking extreme horror, but it alienates those who prefer a more nuanced and suspenseful narrative. I just thought it was out of place so to each their own. Another glaring issue lies in the characterization, particularly with Abi. Kelly's performance is marred by incessant and grating screams that not only annoy but also detract from the overall viewing experience. This pivotal character's development is overshadowed by these distracting screams, making it impossible for you to empathize or connect with her plight. In fact, some viewers might find themselves oddly rooting for the monsters, hoping they put an end to the constant noise. I know I was all for something shutting her up. On a positive note, the film does boast a tense atmosphere, with the remote cabin providing an eerie backdrop for the unfolding horrors. The cinematography captures the isolation and dread effectively, enhancing the film's overall ambiance. How they worked in a lab was interesting enough but necessary for the story so why question it? The whole flick just squanders its potentially intriguing concept on shock tactics and fails to deliver a coherent narrative. While it does have its moments of tension and a suitably creepy setting, the film's descent into gratuitous violence and the grating portrayal of its central character significantly diminish its impact.
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