Directed by Brandon Christensen (Puppetman 2023) and written by Christensen and Colin Minihan (Still/Born), “Z” is a chilling horror film that will give you a dose of spine-tingling terror. Released on Christmas Day 2019, this movie is also known as “Z Wants to Play” in Sweden. When it comes to creepy kid movies, you can never have too many. Colin Minihan, one of my favorite filmmakers, always brings something unique to his films, and “Z” is no exception. You can stream the title on Shudder.
The story wastes no time in introducing its antagonist, with Joshua engaging in a conversation with his best friend “Z” at the dinner table. Initially, I expected a run-of-the-mill spooky ghost tale. But this is another title with Minihan and Christensen’s involvement that is indeed an underrated horror movie gem. And while the film does fall into that generic category, for the most part, it still manages to maintain an atmospheric tension that will make the hairs on your arms stand tall.
The smooth cinematography and the commendable performances from the cast, despite a questionable decision involving young Joshua at one point, keep the audience engaged. There are additional moments of frustrating parenting decisions that bring to mind the film The Prodigy that I wasn’t a fan of but it doesn’t affect the quality of the overall experience. Admittedly, the first half of the film treads familiar ground, where one may feel a sense of déjà vu.
Colin Minihan Movies
It’s in its slowed-down pace that you’ll be caught off guard in the second half. If you hate creepy images in the dark then don’t watch this one alone. I was fine. But once the imaginary friend gets revealed, it is nicely done. There’s a sneak peek of the effervescent Z which our young Josh lovingly scribes on his bedroom wall.
Brandon Christensen Movies
Where the film fell for me was in not taking a foot off the brakes. There is a spoiler element in the storyline that I won’t go into specifics with. But I wanted to take the plunge and go all the way. When everything is lined up for a big finale and that finale sort of limps away at the end, you can’t help but be a little disappointed.
Is the Creepy Kid Annoying?
Nobody likes critiquing child actors, but it’s hard to deny that sometimes even a good performance can be overshadowed by an annoying demeanor. Take, for example, the film Babadook. However, in the case of Jett Klyne, who portrays the significant character of Joshua in Z, rest assured that he exudes a delightful combination of cuteness and remarkable talent, despite his tender age. Additionally, I must express my admiration for Keegan Tracy as mom Elizabeth. Her easily digestible facial expressions and melodious tenor make it impossible to dislike her.
True to Minihan’s form though, and the reason I love his films so much, the narrative does take a turn into an unusual town. But it wouldn’t be a Minihan movie if it wasn’t. This time he has teamed up with writer/director Brandon Christensen. They did Still/Born together and he was part of the production team for “It Stains the Sand Red” and, What Keeps You Alive. All of these movies are ones that I think tend to stand alone and upright in a place of originality in some way or another.
Overall, creepy kid movies are something I enjoy and this film has a monster that lurks in the background pretending to be a little boy’s best friend. That makes this film an underrated horror movie gem that you must add to your next movie-watching session.
“There’s something standing in the corner.”
Quote from the 2019 movie, Z
Where to Watch Z Wants To Play
Z 2019 Film Where To Watch:
“Z 2019″ is rated
3 never waste a wedding dress out of 5
Z Movie Trailer
