Terry O’Quinn set the standard for evil dads with his iconic performance in The Stepfather films. Since then, there have been far and few between films featuring sinister patriarchs. Right on time for Father’s Day, award-winning director, Harley Wallen, brings audiences a new psychological thriller that may have viewers wanting to strangle their dads with that new tie bought for his special day.
Natalie is a young girl living a dream life. A nice home, lots of friends, and a loving family surround the little angel. That is until a stranger abducts her from a serene suburbia. The stranger begins to manipulate the child by telling her that he is indeed her real father. Fifteen years after the abduction, Natalie escapes back to civilization with a mind cloaked with questions. A therapist along with law enforcement attempts to piece together the paternal puzzle before the devilish dad strikes again.
Wallen once again takes his audience on a roller coaster ride of empathetic emotions with FATHERS. Wallen shoots a perfect piece with terrific shot selection that exemplifies Natalie’s trauma. Wallen also puts in a strong performance as a lead in the film, while the mother/daughter duo of Kaiti and Emilia Wallan show fantastic emotional range throughout the film. Wallen keeps the pace flowing with a few interlopers that unexpectedly show up at the secluded home where Natalie is being held, which will please the horror specific crowd. FATHERS keeps the viewer guessing until the dramatic final act where the paternity test from hell is finally answered.
Scream Score: 8/10