Billy Bryk and Finn Wolfhard (best known from “Stranger Things”) wrote this screenplay when they were teens. They’ve also directed it and their lack of experience is obvious. It takes place during counselor’s weekend before the summer camp opens. Reflecting their generation, the diverse group has great DEI representation. Eventually, people start getting murdered, but in a weird decision, none of the violence is ever shown on camera…only the aftermath and sometimes not even that. So, don’t expect any bloody violence or even mild scares. This is a Gen Z version of the genre, so there’s more social discussion and personal interaction than thrills. Even so, the characters are lightly drawn as stereotypes and the narrative sometimes gets muddled. On the positive side, there’s a young energy and a few weak attempts at humor. “Bodies, Bodies, Bodies” (my review) came out in 2022 and it has the same vibe, but at least there was some good gore. Young audiences might appreciate being able to relate to the characters and the spoof of classic thrillers, but anyone hoping for an old-fashioned horror flick will be left wanting. 
(1.5 / 5)
