Retreat (2024) — A Chilling Descent into Trauma and Cultish Horror

Retreat (2024) — A Chilling Descent into Trauma and Cultish Horror

A mother and son head to a retreat to move past a family tragedy. Soon truths are revealed that start to make it clear that the help they need is not there.

Director – Christopher Newberry

Writer – Christopher Newberry

Directed by Christopher Newberry, movie is a haunting exploration of grief and psychological unravelling set against the eerie backdrop of a self-help retreat. Starring Denise Wilton, Harry Walters, and Izzy Kidd, this UK horror film delivers a potent mix of familial tension, surreal imagery, unsettling atmosphere, and the true horror of self-help retreats. Earning its place among thought-provoking horror movies.

The story follows Jane (Denise Wilton), a mother grappling with unresolved trauma from a family death four years prior, and her teenage son Jamie (Harry Walters), as they attend a remote “mindset retreat” promising positivity and healing.

Now, that would be enough to send a shiver down your spine. There is something inherently horrific about the mere thought of attending something labelled as that. Banging drums, hugging trees, and primal screams make this reviewer think that a decent pint or two of whisky is a far better option.  

Instead, they encounter a daytime cult led by a cryptic host, whose daughter Sophia (Izzy Kidd) shares Jamie’s disillusionment with her mother’s forced optimism. As Jane’s reckless behaviour exposes dark secrets from their past, the retreat morphs into a pressure cooker of repressed emotions and looming violence.

True to form, Sophia, the owner of the Retreat, within the first five seconds of screentime, was enough to convince me that all my preconceptions were true. But that is just me; some might feel differently about these people.

Newberry’s script deftly intertwines themes of generational trauma, toxic positivity, and the corrosive effects of grief. Unlike traditional cult horror narratives that fixate on the antagonists’ machinations, the film focuses on the protagonists’ emotional baggage, creating a slow-burn tension that simmers until its explosive climax.

This is a measured horror movie; Newberry doesn’t resort to the many cliched plot devices prevalent in this sort of horror movie. Instead, he layers on the tension and overwhelming sense of dread with a tight script that carefully takes its time with the narrative, which allows the story to move at a pace that mirrors the slow recovery from grief.  

It is also a film that demands your full attention as you look for clues as to the reality of what is happening. But that won’t be difficult as both the script and the cast’s performances are entrancing.

The film’s strength lies in its sinister atmosphere, blending daylight dread with surreal, dreamlike sequences. Retreat carves its own identity through sound design: discordant acoustic tones and jarring pop-rock tracks amplify the disorientation felt by the viewer. The montages of the bizarre rituals keep attacking the viewer’s vision, adding to the sense of disorientation. It was jarring at first, I have to be honest. However, it soon becomes clear that Newberry knows what he is doing, and you sit back and become fully absorbed in this chilling horror movie.

Visually, Newberry juxtaposes the idyllic countryside with claustrophobic interiors, using wide shots to emphasize the characters’ isolation. The final act descends into surrealism, with imagery that lingers long after the credits roll, a testament to the director’s ability to merge psychological horror with visceral visuals.

Denise Wilton shines as Jane, oscillating between vulnerability and recklessness with magnetic intensity. Her portrayal of a woman teetering on the edge of self-destruction anchors the film’s emotional core. Harry Walters delivers a nuanced performance as Jamie, capturing teenage angst and quiet resilience, while Izzy Kidd’s Sophia adds a rebellious edge, challenging the facade of harmony.

While it excels in mood and character study, its pacing may test some viewers. The deliberate buildup prioritizes psychological tension over jump scares, which could alienate fans of more in-your-face horror movies. However, this approach rewards patience, culminating in a finale that’s as emotionally charged as it is horrifying.

Christopher Newberry’s movie is a masterclass in atmospheric horror, blending familial drama with cultish dread. If you are looking for a point of reference, it could be compared to the films of Ben Wheatley before he decided to ditch thought-provoking horror movies for giant sharks.  

Its focus on internal demons over external threats offers a refreshing take on the genre, bolstered by standout performances and audacious sound design. For those willing to sit with its discomfort, Retreat is a compelling, thought-provoking experience.

Further Reading

Horror movie fans looking to deepen their appreciation for the genre should definitely check out the Horror Movie Review section of Ginger Nuts of Horror. This platform is a treasure trove of insights, critiques, and discussions that resonate with both casual viewers and dedicated aficionados alike.

Firstly, the reviews are penned by passionate writers who understand the intricacies of horror filmmaking. They delve deep into the elements that make each film unique, from unsettling visuals to compelling sound design, offering a comprehensive analysis that goes beyond superficial impressions. Such in-depth reviews can enhance viewers’ understanding and appreciation of the genre, revealing layers of meaning and intention that may go unnoticed during a first watch.

Lastly, with its focus on both mainstream and indie films, the Horror Movie Review section is an excellent resource to stay updated on upcoming releases and trends in the horror landscape. For any horror buff, exploring The Ginger Nuts of Horror Review Website is an essential step toward a deeper connection with the genre.