‘The truth might set you free’
Malicious is a 2023 American thriller film about a family weekend getaway that turns nasty when a mysterious stranger knocks on their door.
Directed and co-produced by John Fallon (The Shelter; short: The Red Hours) from a screenplay co-written with co-producer and co-star Kevin Interdonato. Also produced by Nick Baillie and Joseph Sernio. Executive produced by Terrie Marroquin and Igor Princ.
The Bruise Productions-Take No Prisoners Productions movie also stars Nick Baillie, Melissa Anschutz, Alix Lane, John Fallon and Danilo Rocha.
Plot:
The McCabe family’s weekend getaway was never meant to be a life-changing experience. Governor William McCabe (Nick Baillie), a respected politician, was looking forward to some rest and relaxation. His beautiful wife Lauren (Melissa Anschutz) and distant stepdaughter Erin (Alix Lane) strain to enjoy their time together, as the façade of the trophy family has worn dangerously thin. Things take a severe turn for the worse when a charismatic stranger (Kevin Interdonato) knocks on their door and triggers an unexpected chain of events…
Reviews:
“Malicious is a commendable film that successfully generates tension and intensity. The standout aspect of the movie is its performance, while the visual and narrative elements may come across as conventional or sparse […] Though it exhibits peculiar choices, particularly in the middle section, the film concludes with a satisfying sense of closure in its final moments.” All Horror
“Malicious is a powerful film with a message that is transmitted in a violent way. Some will hate the approach, but others will love it […] The strong performances with the writing, directing, and cinematography elevate the movie here and make it a must-see.” Cinema Crazed
“The performances are the best thing about the movie, while the visuals and the story might be too generic or sparse to cause any meaningful impression. The film also deals with trendy topics that make it relevant in today’s world. Some weird decisions are being made here and there, especially towards the middle, but as the movie ends, there is a nice feeling of satisfaction watching those last few minutes.” 7 out of 10, Fiction Horizon
“The violence here is not necessarily gory or extreme; it’s mostly fists to the face. It still has a relentless impact to it, reminding me of the kind you get in S. Craig Zahler’s movies. It’s brutal: I commend whoever did the foley work in particular. Very crunchy.” Rating: B, Film Blitz
“Malicious doesn’t completely live up to its name, and it shies away from some of the brutality it richly needs, but it’s an excellent indie film regardless. It’s an interesting take on the home invasion thriller, and it does a great job of maintaining the audience’s interest. Writer/star Kevin Interdonato is fantastic, and writer/director John Fallon does a great job of creating a visually interesting film with just a few shortcomings.” The Horror Revolution
“Fallon interestingly evokes Jonathan Demme (Silence of the Lambs) by consistently having his actors perform straight to the camera in close-up shots. It is an effective tool, with the viewer at times transitioning from the role of voyeur to participant in this vengeful fuelled version of a kangaroo court. A twist-filled script engrosses with its unpredictable nature.” ★★★½ Matt’s Movie Reviews
” …the threat of violence overhangs many scenes even when the actual violence may not take place – it’s a clever way to keep you tense and engaged, and to wonder why a part of you is disappointed when the threatened violence doesn’t happen. Though a little flabby in the mid-section, it turns it around quickly and gifts us with a memorable ending and a surprisingly entertaining film that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to friends.” ★★★½ The Movie Waffler
Release date:
Malicious was released by 4Digital Media on October 10, 2023.
Official trailer [1080p HD]:
Choice dialogue:
Jesse: “A real man will repent for his sins.”
Original title:
Braek [sic]
