PopHorror Let's Get Scared
Modern creature features in the horror genre typically revolve around a deformed, vicious beast that pummels and shreds its way to the end credits. Few films of today take the misunderstood Frankenstein’s monster approach to this subgenre. However, Fritz Böhm fuses this element with a unique, coming-of-age angle for his full-length feature debut, Wildling, starring Bel Powley (The Diary of a Teenage Girl), Brad Dourif (Child’s Play, Rob Zombie’s Halloween), Liv Tyler (The Strangers, Lord of the Rings) and Collin Kelly-Sordelet (The Path TV series).
Raised by Daddy (Brad Dourif) in isolated confinement, Anna (Bel Powley) is placed in the care of Ellen Cooper (Liv Tyler) and her younger brother, Ray Cooper (Collin Kelly-Sordelet), after a traumatic incident leaves her parentless. Experiencing the world for the first time as a teenager through childlike eyes, life hits Anna all at once as she begins blossoming from adolescence to womanhood. However, when biological changes take a quick, alarming turn, Anna uncovers secrets of her dark past kept hidden by the man she called Daddy.
As expected, Dourif plays the role of Daddy to perfection, adding just the right about of creepiness, while Tyler brings a much softer, motherly side to the film. Though Kelly-Sordelet has less experience under his belt, he is fantastic in portraying a young teenager who has difficulty fitting in while going through the typical trials and tribulations of an average high school kid. Among such an incredible cast, Powley stands out, nailing her role as Anna by carrying the depth of her character from beginning to end.
With such a great story encompassing many influences while retaining commendable originality, it comes as no surprise that such a cast would not hesitate to join such a production. What is surprising is that is Böhm’s first full-length feature. Handling his debut as a seasoned director would, Böhm brings his story to life, creating a rural environment from the urban area of New York City. Though resources were limited, one never would have guessed. With an abundance of creativity, Wildling is an impressive feature that has the look and feel of a studio production.
For a behind-the-scenes look at Wildling, be sure to check out our interview with Fritz Bohm here. Released through IFC Midnight, this must-see creature feature will show in select theaters (NYC, LA) and hit VOD on April 13th.
