“Bad Things” is a psychological thriller, written and directed by Stewart Thorndike. Part of her planned trilogy with a central focus on motherhood, this film is a compelling addition to her repertoire. Following the success of her previous film, “Lyle,” Thorndike continues to explore dark and twisted tales set within the realm of maternal relationships.

Estranged from her mother, Ruthie finds herself compelled to reconnect with her at her grandmother’s funeral. However, as their complicated relationship unfolds, it becomes clear that Ruthie’s mother holds a significant role in the hotel’s dark secrets.

Released as a “Shudder Original” on August 14, 2023, “Bad Things” follows Ruthie, portrayed by the excellent Gayle Rankin. She unexpectedly inherits a grand hotel from her late grandmother’s estate. Ruthie and her group of friends accompany her to the mysterious hotel and decide on what should happen next. With conflicting ideas about what the future holds for the inherited property, tensions rise.

Great Psychological Thriller, Bad Things

Since its first showing at Tribeca (review by Nighmarish Conjurings Website), the whispers surrounding “Bad Things” have only fueled its mystique. This horror film has been intriguingly labeled as a lesbian rendition of “The Shining.” With a grand, partially abandoned hotel setting, those familiar with “The Shining” may draw parallels and anticipate a similar eerie atmosphere. The storyline propels into looking like a slasher movie convincingly so that there is always uncertainty in the course of events to come.

The pacing of Bad Things didn’t quite live up to expectations. While supernatural titles often rely on building tension through background information, the film fell short of accomplishing this effectively. The advertising teased the theme of “Where women do bad things,” but unfortunately, the exploration of this concept was largely limited. Other aspects of the movie also left me questioning motivations and lacking a clear understanding of some imagery. Moreover, the use of simple horror tropes and the presence of jarring one-dimensional conversational scenes further detract from the overall experience.

A Character Study

In Ruthie, Bad Things offers superficial insight into her churlish nature. Ruthie’s complex personality serves as the focal point. She drives the narrative forward with her compelling demeanor. However, while Ruthie takes center stage, it is worth noting that the remaining characters in Bad Things often appear unlikable. This makes them somewhat annoying as mere side pieces that lack substantial depth.

Yet, it is crucial to acknowledge that these seemingly unsavory characters play a necessary role in storytelling. Their presence emphasizes the overarching theme of paternity and its power. In a surprising turn of events, Bad Things also presents a cameo of epic proportions. Molly Ringwald, renowned actress and cultural icon, makes a special appearance as a motivational speaker whom Ruthie idolizes, sometimes bordering on obsession.

“Bad Things”, is set against the backdrop of intense human connections. As the plot unfolds, it explores the intricacies of relationships, weaving together themes of love, fear, and the unspoken. The storyline is suspenseful and delves deep into the human psyche. It unearths secrets and offers a twist on a familiar setting. Despite this, the title doesn’t hit the highs anticipated.

It does have a chainsaw though… and we like that.

Bad Things is rated

Want more psychological horror movies? Add House of Ashes | Daddy’s Head and Apartment 7A to your watchlist next.

3 Chainsaws waiting to be wielded out of 5

Mother of Movies score

Bad Things 2023 movie. Courtesy of Shudder.

Watch The Bad Things Trailer

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