Dark Secrets in a Chilling Christmas Setting

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MOVIE REVIEW
A Creature Was Stirring
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Genre: Horror
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 40m
Director(s): Damien LeVeck
Writer(s): Shannon Wells
Cast: Chrissy Metz, Annalise Basso, Scout Taylor-Compton, Connor Paolo
Where To Watch: in select theaters December 8, 2023, releasing on VOD December 12

RAVING REVIEW: The holiday horror genre grows and evolves yearly; we often have mixed results. A CREATURE WAS STIRRING stands out with a narrative that immediately captures your attention. At the heart of this tale is Nurse Faith, portrayed by Chrissy Metz, who goes to extraordinary lengths to shield her daughter, played by Annalise Basso, from a perplexing illness. This central relationship infuses the film with urgency and emotional complexity, elevating it above a typical fright-fest. There was a lot here to enjoy, but there was also a lot I felt missed the mark. That’s the definition of a film that earns a 2.5-star review for me, something that falls right in the middle of something I didn’t love but also didn’t hate.

Directed by Damien LeVeck and written by Shannon Wells, A CREATURE WAS STIRRING distinguishes itself within the horror genre. The film pays homage to classic horror techniques with its fantastic use of practical effects. The creature, brought to life by Tate Steinsiek's mastery of special effects, adds a tangible and nightmarish dimension to the story. The film definitely leans into what I feel is vital for horror, less is more, and you don’t always need to “see the scary” to make it scary.

The film also introduces a suspense-filled subplot involving a home invasion amidst a harrowing Christmas blizzard. The intruders, portrayed by Scout Taylor-Compton and Connor Paolo, add tension and intrigue. With her deep-seated religious beliefs, Taylor-Compton's character, Liz, adds an unexpected and fascinating twist to the unfolding drama.

Basso's portrayal of a young girl struggling with a monstrous secret is both moving and haunting. Metz delivers a powerful performance as a mother grappling with unimaginable fears. Taylor-Compton, known for her horror genre roles, brings complexity and dark humor to her character, enriching the film's narrative texture. I would have liked to have seen a little more focus on character development, though I feel that’s one of the most significant knocks on the film; I didn’t get to connect with them as much as I would have liked.

Set against a backdrop of relentless winter gloom, the film's singular setting is pivotal in ramping up the suspense. The atmosphere and the movie's focused narrative create a sense of claustrophobia, heightening the tension and enhancing the storytelling. The film's lighting stands out; each scene was painted with a noticeable precision throughout; the reds, blues, greens, and the regular use of Christmas lights create a definite feeling.

The film's climax, marked by an abrupt plot twist, slightly disrupts the narrative flow. A smoother integration of this twist would have contributed more effectively to the film's narrative arc and overall impact. Despite these minor issues, A CREATURE WAS STIRRING is a memorable addition to the holiday horror genre. It combines a poignant mother-daughter dynamic with a haunting creature realized through superior practical effects and solid performances. The film is engaging and appealing to horror fans and those who appreciate a modern twist on classic horror elements.

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[photo courtesy of WELL GO USA ENTERTAINMENT]