One of the most talked about horror films of the last year, Shelby Oaks, made its US premiere at Fantastic Fest. The feature film debut of writer and director Christ Stuckmann, Shelby Oaks originally premiered in 2024 at Fantasia International Film Festival. There was already a lot of buzz around the film after a wildly successful Kickstarter campaign, achieving well over its goal. However, even more talk came after Neon picked up the film and provided an even larger budget for some minor reshoots and additional material. Shelby Oaks tells the story of a woman’s search for her sister, who disappeared years ago while filming a paranormal investigation show. As new evidence comes to light, she discovers an evil that has been following their family her entire life.

Right away, Stuckmann subverts expectations with Shelby Oaks. The film is part found footage, part mockumentary, and part traditional narrative film. The central mystery is established quickly, showing the audience the final footage taken by Riley, a paranormal investigator, before Riley vanished and her friends were found murdered. Yet Riley is not the main character of this film. The focus shifts to her older sister, Mia, as she is the only one actively trying to find Riley after twelve long years. New clues come to light, and Mia’s desperation drives her forward on a dangerous path. Stuckmann creates a thrilling story, weaving an intricate plot with plenty of twists, as well as a truly shocking finale. Shelby Oaks is difficult to dive into without getting into spoilers, but I can say the mystery is as smart as it is horrifying, especially in how it conveys just how far people will go to fulfill their deepest desire. It’s a fascinating story that incorporates elements of various other horror films while still managing to feel unique. There is also plenty of terror to be had throughout. This film could be described as a slow burn, yet it has a careful balance of chilling ambience and heart-pounding jump scares.

One of the highlights of Shelby Oaks is the brilliant performances by the two leads. Camille Sullivan (Hunter Hunter, Shoresy) stars as Mia. Right away it’s clear Mia is the loving, protective older sister. This is why she’s the only one, after all these years, still actively searching for her sister, even at the expense of other relationships. Sullivan brings such heart and earnestness to the performance, making the character feel real. Even when Mia is barreling straight into danger, the characterization makes these actions make sense. Sarah Durn (Carry-On, Where the Crawdads Sing) plays Mia’s younger sister, Riley. While Riley is primarily shown in shaky found footage shots, Durn leaves a lasting impression. Even when she’s sensing something her friends can’t, Durn perfectly conveys Riley’s fear. It’s palpable, reaching through the screen to grab the audience by the throat. Together, Sullivan and Durn bring authenticity to their sibling relationship, even as they are drowning in horror and trauma.

One of the more interesting aspects of Shelby Oaks is the various formats used to tell the story. This is also what will make this film polarizing for audiences. Shelby Oaks is largely advertised as a found footage film. It certainly begins that way, showing the old footage of Riley and her friends, before it shifts into a higher-quality mockumentary style. This allows for the filmmakers to add context through old footage, news clips, and interviews explaining what happened and where the investigation is currently at. But then, quite suddenly, the film slips into a traditional narrative. This might disappoint some audience members, but it works surprisingly well in this film. It allows for a more intimate look into Mia’s life and her search for Riley, while also providing more opportunities for big, bold scares. Using both practical effects and some complimentary CGI, the design for the horrors on screen look sufficiently terrifying and gory to deliver plenty of gasps and fright. Some of the visuals are truly disturbing as they bring to life demonic, supernatural nightmares in many shapes and sizes.

Shelby Oaks is a mixed-media mystery that delivers shock, gore, and terror throughout this tale of two devoted sisters. Stuckmann delivers a phenomenal feature film debut, ensuring horror fans everywhere will pay close attention to what he does next. While some audiences may be disappointed the film isn’t fully found-footage or wish it was less of a slow burn, others will fall head over heels for Mia and Riley’s story, as well as the horrifying imagery adding to the scares. Sullivan and Durn add a great deal of emotion and heart to the film, elevating the dread as the mystery unfolds. Don’t miss Shelby Oaks exclusively in theaters beginning Friday, October 24th.

OVERALL RATING: 8/10