A getaway retreat to a rural town has been a staple in the genre since the inception of the art form. From Stephen King’s immortal, The Shining, to the cult classic, Cabin in the Woods, isolated horror concepts have creeped out fans for decades. Writer/Director/Actor Dean Jacobs attempts to put his mark on the popular sub-genre with his latest film, Water Rites. With icons Dee Wallace, Lynn Lowry, and Michael Berryman, on the cast sheet, expectations will be high for this terror trip into the mountains.
Katie and James take the summer off to escape the daily grind of the big city. The couple chooses a gorgeous retreat to the mountain town of Arrowhead in hopes of taking in the peace and serenity of the gorgeous landscape. Over the next few weeks, both the history and the local inhabitants cause the happy duo to look behind the seemingly peaceful veil of the resort community. Slowly, a long dark legacy creeps from the woods and lake to cloak the couple into a world where shadow conspiracies come to life.
Water Rites is a dark trek into the mountains, one from which there is no escape. Jacobs presents a fresh take on an old tale with a sharp script that will give anyone booking a trip nightmares. Also starring in the film, Jacobs puts forth a solid performance while co-star Katy Bentz shines while displaying great range on her roller coaster summer retreat. Wallace, Lowry, and Berryman steal their scenes each time they appear on screen. The director puts the stunning town to good use with great shot selection to keep the pace of the slow burn film crackling with sinister flames. Fans of the film and book, You Should Have Left, will enjoy this latest film from the talented Dean Jacobs.
Scream Score: 8.2/10