My Take:
Netflix pulled off something brilliant here—taking the classic slasher formula of movies like Scream or Friday the 13th and giving it a queer heart. The story of Deena and Sam isn't just a side plot; it is the axis around which the entire battle against the Shadyside curse revolves. Instead of seeing LGBTQ+ characters die first (a tired horror trope), we root for them as the protagonists fighting for each other across centuries.
What's Captivating: The retro vibes! Moving through 1994, 1978, and 1666 is an incredible journey. The soundtrack steals the show, and the chemistry between Kiana Madeira (Deena) and Olivia Scott Welch (Sam) makes you genuinely care about their survival. The 1666 segment is a masterful exploration of the roots of hatred and intolerance.
A Word of Caution: It’s gory. If you’re not a fan of severed limbs and brutal kills (the bread slicer scene!), be prepared to cover your eyes. This is a slasher through and through.
Verdict: 9/10 🩸🏳️🌈
The best proof that horror can be queer, commercial, and deeply moving all at once. A must-watch for every genre fan!
🔍 Did you know...?
The trilogy was filmed back-to-back, almost like one giant movie. Director Leigh Janiak wanted Deena and Sam's love to be "stronger than evil itself." Interestingly, Deena’s character became an instant style icon thanks to her denim jacket and flannel shirts, sparking a global "Deena-core" fashion trend on TikTok and Instagram.
