The Wretched (film)

The film is set in a small Michigan lakeside town during the summer. Ben, a teenager whose parents are separating, is sent to live with his father. He becomes suspicious of the new neighbor, Abbie, who moves into a nearby house with her family. Ben discovers that Abbie is a witch who has been kidnapping children, and he must convince his father and the townspeople of the danger.

The narrative blends classic witch folklore with contemporary family drama, emphasizing themes of neglect and adolescent isolation. The setting—a quiet, idyllic community—contrasts sharply with the horror, creating a sense of unease. The film's climax involves a confrontation in the witch's lair, where Ben must rescue a kidnapped child.

The Pierce Brothers, known for their previous feature Deadheads (2011), wrote and directed The Wretched. The film was produced by Cailleach Productions and was shot in Michigan, utilizing practical effects and minimal CGI to evoke a classic horror aesthetic. The budget was modest, reported around $1 million.

The film premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in April 2020, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it did not receive a wide theatrical release until May 2020. IFC Midnight distributed it, and it became a surprise hit, grossing over $1.8 million at the domestic box office, making it one of the top-grossing films during the pandemic's early months.

Critical reception was generally positive. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 77% approval rating, with critics praising its effective scares and strong performances, particularly from John-Paul Howard as Ben. The film was noted for its ability to deliver a satisfying horror experience despite its limited resources.

It was also recognized for its box-office achievement during a time when theaters were largely closed, demonstrating the viability of genre films in a pandemic-era market. The film has since gained a cult following among horror enthusiasts, with some comparing its tone to 1980s horror classics.

One lesser-known fact is that the Pierce Brothers drew inspiration from their own childhood experiences in Michigan, incorporating local legends and folklore into the story. The witch's design was intentionally kept ambiguous, with the brothers citing a desire to avoid over-explaining the supernatural elements.

The film's release strategy was unconventional: it was one of the first films to be released theatrically during the pandemic, and it was also made available on premium video-on-demand shortly after. Additionally, the film's score, composed by Devin Burrows, was recorded with a small ensemble, using analog synthesizers to create a retro feel. The film's success led to a sequel announcement, though as of 2024, no release date has been set.

Witch

A supernatural being with magical powers, often depicted as malevolent in folklore.

Practical effects

Special effects created physically on set, as opposed to computer-generated imagery.