Mercy Falls

Mercy Falls: A Misguided Horror That Falls Flat

A Review by Hugh Barnes

September 2nd, 2023

Writer-director Ryan Hendrick's "Mercy Falls" is a misguided horror film that squanders its potential with a deeply confusing instigating incident and a cast of characters whose irrepressible horniness borders on the absurd. The film follows a group of friends (Lauren Lyle, Nicolette McKeown, James Watterson, and Layla Kirk) who set off into the Scottish Highlands in search of a long-lost cabin. What begins as a lighthearted adventure quickly descends into a nightmare as they are stalked and terrorized by an unseen force.

The film's greatest flaw is its utter lack of clarity. The instigating incident, which sets the friends on their ill-fated journey, is never fully explained and seems to come out of nowhere. This lack of motivation makes it difficult to invest in the characters' plight, as their actions often seem nonsensical and arbitrary. The horror elements are equally underdeveloped, relying heavily on jump scares and gore rather than genuine suspense or atmosphere.

The characters themselves are equally problematic. Their constant sexual innuendos and over-the-top behavior grow tiresome quickly, and it becomes difficult to take them seriously as they face increasingly dire circumstances. The dialogue is often cringe-worthy, and the characters' relationships feel forced and unrealistic.

Overall, "Mercy Falls" is a disappointing and frustrating horror film that fails to deliver on its promise. With a confusing plot, unlikable characters, and ineffective horror elements, the film is a waste of time for even the most ardent horror fans.