Sting delivers a thrilling throwback to '90s creature features, blending nostalgia with modern horror elements in a delightful and terrifying package. Directed by Kiah Roache-Turner, known for Wyrmwood: Apocalypse, this film reimagines the creature horror genre with a unique spin, set against the backdrop of snowy, atmospheric New York, it takes that extra step to add another layer of claustrophobia.
The plot centers on 12-year-old Charlotte (Alyla Browne), whose pet spider undergoes a rapid and horrifying transformation into a giant, flesh-eating monster. Browne's performance is exceptional, holding her own in a film that demands a lot from its young lead. The character depth and range shown by the entire cast add significant weight to the film, making it more than just a typical monster movie.
Jermaine Fowler shines in his role, bringing charisma and energy to every scene he’s in. Fowler, already a rising star from his previous work, proves once again that he’s someone to watch. His presence on screen is magnetic, and it's clear he needed more screen time. His scenes are some of the most engaging, truly stealing the show.
The film’s introduction is reminiscent of the awe and tension from the first Jurassic Park, setting the stage for the creature chaos to come. The special effects, crafted by the Academy Award-winning Weta Workshop, are a mix of decent CGI and exceptional practical effects. The spider's transformation and the subsequent gore are both shocking and well-executed, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
Sting excels in creating a creepy, immersive atmosphere. The sound effects amplify the fear without feeling overdone, and the snowy, stormy weather adds to the haunting ambiance. The balance between CGI and practical effects is commendable, particularly in the spider webs and creature design, which look impressive for the most part.
The film’s score is effective, enhancing the suspense and thrill. The nostalgic elements, such as Alyla’s character being named after Wilber’s friend, are endearing touches that are fun easter eggs for those who like that sort of thing. The movie succeeds with ease, creating a fun, engaging experience from start to finish.
One minor critique is the somewhat underwhelming reveal of the spider eggs. We all knew it was coming, and while the inclusion of this is appreciated, a more dramatic stinger would have elevated the finale that much more. Also, the incongruous use of a Twitter noise while posing on Instagram feels like a small oversight in an otherwise tight narrative.
Sting is a fantastic creature feature that offers plenty of scares, jumps, and laughs. It's a film that doesn't try too hard but still manages to succeed effortlessly, providing a fun, thrilling ride from start to finish. Whether you’re a fan of '90s horror or looking for a new monster movie to enjoy, Sting is well worth the watch.
Sting debuts on digital May 28, before landing on Blu-ray & DVD July 30 from Well Go USA Entertainment. With bonus content including behind-the-scenes featurettes, it’s a great addition to any horror aficionado’s collection.
Jessie Hobson