Shelby Oaks is a haunting new film from director Chris Stuckmann. It stars Sarah Durn as Riley and Camille Sullivan as Mia, exploring a chilling mystery surrounding a group of young paranormal investigators who go missing. The movie starts with Riley’s frantic footage, pulling viewers in with her raw fear and regret.
Fans of found footage films will notice that Shelby Oaks nods to classics like The Blair Witch Project. However, Stuckmann adds his unique twist with unsettling characters and eerie locations. For instance, a run-down facility plays a crucial role, adding layers to the story. There’s even a shocking moment where a character self-harms, intensifying the horror.
Keith David’s appearance adds gravitas, grounding the film with his solid performance. As Mia delves deeper into the mystery, she encounters dangerous elements, including a menacing dog. The story escalates with unexpected twists, leading to hair-raising revelations, especially as a baby becomes a pivotal element in the narrative.
Mia’s backstory adds depth, with hints of past trauma shared with Riley. The film skillfully uses jump scares without overwhelming the viewer, leaving some mysteries unresolved, which enhances the overall tension. The atmosphere of Ohio adds to the film’s eerie charm, making it a fitting backdrop for horror. The small-town setting amplifies the unsettling feelings, perfectly aligning with the movie’s themes.
Durn and Sullivan shine in their roles, effectively illustrating the bond between sisters. Durn’s portrayal of a terrified Riley is standout, while Sullivan drives the plot forward with determination and emotional depth. In a scene where Durn’s character appears disheveled and scared, her performance truly resonates.
This film operates on the principle that sometimes less is more. By not revealing every piece of the story, it creates a lingering sense of suspense. At the end, viewers will have some answers but will still feel the chill of unanswered questions—perfectly setting the stage for a possible sequel.
Recent statistics indicate a growing interest in horror films, particularly found footage ones. In 2023, found footage films made up nearly 15% of the horror genre’s box office contributions, showing that audiences are still drawn to this unsettling filming style.
Shelby Oaks offers a refreshingly creepy experience for horror fans, using clever storytelling and solid performances to create an engaging masterpiece. It’s definitely worth watching if you enjoy spine-tingling stories that linger long after the credits roll.
Rating: 7/10
