Are you a fan of slasher films that lead you through a rollercoaster of fierce feminine fury? The latest masterpiece from Shudder, a part of the AMC Network, is tailor-made for you: Bad Things.

As soon as I discovered that filmmaker Stewart Thorndike – known for crafting feminist genre films as a queer writer and director – was at the helm of this horror slasher movie, my anticipation soared. The assurance of being in capable hands resonated deeply. Not only did I anticipate a riveting narrative brimming with feminist camaraderie, I also knew that the queer slasher genre was in for a respectful treatment with Bad Things.

What truly captivated me was the infusion of queer identity into this expertly executed slasher tale. The film’s queer undertones felt authentic and gratifying, elevating the viewing experience. Witnessing a brilliantly performed and narrated slasher story that seamlessly incorporated a queer narrative was indeed a breath of fresh air.

Basic Story of ‘Bad Things’

Gayle Rankin, Hari Nef, and Rad Pereira in Stewart Thorndike’s BAD THINGS. Courtesy of Shudder.

We step into a world of intrigue as a close-knit group of friends seeks solace from the urban bustle in an abandoned hotel. What starts as a weekend getaway becomes a haunting journey as the unsettling energy of the place unveils hidden fault lines within their camaraderie.

Meet Ruthie Nodd (portrayed by Gayle Rankin), who unexpectedly inherits the hotel from her grandmother. Battling distressing childhood memories that threaten to resurface, Ruthie’s inclination is to part ways with the hotel forever. However, her partner Cal (played by Hari Nef) has different plans; he’s determined to revive the hotel’s former splendor.

Joined by their affable companion Maddie (embodied by Rad Pereira) and enigmatic grifter Fran (brought to life by Annabelle Dexter-Jones), the group embarks on a journey that goes beyond restoration. Fran’s unsettling charm and mysterious intentions sow discord between the couple, casting shadows on their relationship.

Amidst the dance of emotions, culinary escapades, playful flirtations, and fiery conflicts echoing through the hotel’s corridors, the friends inexorably find themselves ensnared in the irresistible allure of the establishment. As the enchanting ambiance takes hold, their actions turn malevolent, leading them down a path of moral ambiguity.

Creative Queer Storytelling That is Relatable

Gayle Rankin and Annabelle Dexter-Jones in Stewart Thorndike’s BAD THINGS. Courtesy of Shudder.

The way this film seamlessly integrates a queer storyline truly stood out to me. It wasn’t forcefully shoehorned in. Rather, it organically became an integral aspect of the narrative. Instead of overshadowing the slasher plot, it effortlessly contributed to the strong bond among the friends. This approach resonated with me deeply, and I found it immensely satisfying.

The queer undertone woven into the story adds a relatable layer that transcends personal orientations. This inclusivity is a testament to the film’s ability to connect with a diverse audience. It’s refreshing to witness how the queer element enriches the story without dominating it, making for a viewing experience that’s both gratifying and universally relatable.

Fem Rage on Display

Gayle Rankin in Stewart Thorndike’s BAD THINGS. Courtesy of Shudder.

Within the realm of Bad Things, a compelling demonstration of feminine rage takes center stage. From my perspective, this film expertly unravels the subtle yet potent accumulation of feminine anger. As the storm of fury finally emerges, it does so with a controlled intensity, a calculated force that leaves an indelible impact. This resonates especially if you’ve experienced the hushed tension within a close-knit group of friends, where silence foreshadows an imminent eruption of emotions.

In my view, this slasher film serves as a prime example of how various elements can amass, leading to a cathartic and powerful release. It mirrors the build-up of emotions that many individuals can relate to, and when the floodgates open, the result is a striking blend of precision and unbridled intensity.

‘Bad Things’ is a Good Thing for Horror

In essence, Bad Things stands out as an exceptional cinematic experience. This film masterfully weaves a captivating narrative around a tight-knit friend group, delving into intricate dynamics and simmering drama. Seamlessly interwoven within is a poignant portrayal of queerness, coupled with a palpable undercurrent of feminine rage. Bad Things succeeds in delivering an example of this synergy with a level of expertise that’s truly remarkable.

The film’s resonating impact is akin to the likes of The Shining and Fargo, cinematic masterpieces in their own right. Drawing parallels to these acclaimed works, Bad Things confidently establishes itself as an artistic triumph. If you’re an ardent admirer of slasher films, this cinematic gem promises an enthralling experience that combines compelling storytelling, profound character dynamics, and an innovative exploration of identity and emotion.

Check out Bad Things on Shudder and AMC+ on Friday, August 18th, 2023

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