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Cast: Brande Roderick, Carolyn Hennesy (General Hospital, Cougar Town), Texas Battle (Hard Kill, Coach Carter), Casey King (Star Trek: Pickard) and Keaton Roderick Cadrez. WINEVILLE was written by Richard Schenkman (The Man From Earth)
Set in the 70s, WINEVILLE follows a woman who, after escaping her abusive father as a teen, is forced to return to the family vineyard to settle his affairs upon his death. She discovers that the dark secrets she left behind have only grown more sinister over the decades, fermenting into violence and death.
'Wineville' is the directorial debut from producer/star Brande Roderick, whom you may remember from "Baywatch." It is a southern style horror/thriller that plays out like a lot of other films similar to it, but it also brings its own brand of horror to the table. The opening scene sets the stage for what is to come. It is a brutal and disturbing scene in more than one way.
We then meet Tess Lott and her son Walter as they travel to Wineville after her father, who abused her as a child, has died. Looking to get the affairs in order quickly and sell the property, but her aunt Margaret along with her farmhand Joe may have something to say about that. Tess knows of the family secrets of the past, but what she doesn't know might put her and her young son in grave danger.
After the film's opening scene, it settles in and we meet the characters and are shown the situation Tess has been put in, and the film slowly reveals its grisly secrets that still exist and have only gotten worse over time. 'Wineville' keeps a nice pace and remains engaging until the action kicks in during its final act. There are some gory moments of extreme violence, and the practical effects used are very well done. The film might be too disturbing for some, but if you like your horror brutal and nasty, then this is one for you. 'Wineville serves up its southern style of violence, mean and disturbing. It also has enough tension, atmosphere, and suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat during its final act.
'Wineville' was in select theaters on September 6 and will be on VOD/Digital and Physical Media on September 10, 2024. If you like your horror mean and unforgiving, then be sure to check out this little gem.
Released by Dark Star Pictures
*** 3/4 Out Of *****