Unveiling Mental Health Through Horror

Read Time:3 Minute, 41 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Forest Hills
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Genre: Drama, Horror, Thriller
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 19m
Director(s): Scott Goldberg
Writer(s): Scott Goldberg, Scott B. Hansen
Cast: Shelley Duvall, Edward Furlong, Dee Wallace, Stacey Nelkin, Felissa Rose, Chiko Mendez, Marianne Hagan, Jesse-Lee Lafferty, Sondra Wymar, Wes Lee, Jamie Marsh
Where To Watch: available to pre-order here, www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: From the start, THE FOREST HILLS pulls you in with its intense opening, diving deep into the troubled mind of a man convinced he’s becoming something he can’t explain. This film veers away from the traditional werewolf fare, steering instead towards a darker exploration of mental illness under Scott Goldberg's direction. It would have been easy to fall into a straightforward “monster” flick; instead, it took a deeper approach.

The narrative is punctuated with lighter moments throughout, even though it tackles some heavy themes, adding a layer of complexity to the film. These moments not only break the tension but also ground the movie in reality; even in our darkest times, we have to be able to smile for a moment.

Let’s get to the part that so many are here for: the return of Shelley Duvall; after an extended absence from the silver screen, Duvall returns here, delivering a potent performance in her limited screen time that captures her characters' depth and psychological turmoil. Duvall brings depth to her role as the protagonist's mother. At the same time, Chiko Mendez's portrayal of Rico’s descent into madness is captivating. They are supported by solid performances from Edward Furlong, Dee Wallace, and others who add their unique touches to the film's storyline.

The film shines in terms of cinematography, effects, and most of the acting in the movie. As well as a “throwback” to one character's portrayals of a younger version of them. The things the film did well were right; it perfected. Although when it struggled, it was pretty noticeable, such as the runtime, it felt at least 20 minutes too long, with some scenes added in that felt almost like filler.

THE FOREST HILLS still manages to be an intriguing ride and a shining example of the power of indie films to tackle significant issues like mental health without skimping on entertainment. The film’s discussion of such topics acts as a catalyst for societal discourse, reflecting on cinema's impact beyond mere storytelling.

Goldberg’s deliberate choice to blend some well-known actors with newer faces adds a level of realism to the narrative, offering an engaging viewing experience throughout.

THE FOREST HILLS carves out its niche within the psychological thriller genre, with just enough horror elements. It marks Shelley Duvall's triumphant return and showcases some other rising talents. This film offers a compelling watch worth your time for anyone drawn to the depth of the human mind and a fresh take on the genre-style film. Its bold integration of real-life issues with fictional storytelling is an achievement, making it a memorable addition to the genre. Even with the bumps in the road, most thriller fans will be able to find enjoyment in the story here.

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[photo courtesy of DREZNICK GOLDBERG PRODUCTIONS, DIGITAL THUNDERDOME, 33 AND WEST]

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