Monstrous (film)

Monstrous is a 2022 American monster horror film directed by Chris Sivertson and written by Carol Chrest. The film stars Christina Ricci as Laura, a woman fleeing an abusive relationship with her seven-year-old son, Cody (Santino Barnard). Seeking a fresh start, they relocate to a remote farmhouse near a tranquil lake.

As Laura and Cody settle into their new life, Cody becomes increasingly convinced that a monster lives in the lake and is trying to take him. Laura initially dismisses Cody's fears as a child's imagination stemming from the trauma they experienced. However, as the events escalate, Laura begins to question her own sanity and the true nature of the threat.

The film explores themes of trauma, motherhood, gaslighting, and the power of belief. Monstrous utilizes a creature feature framework to delve into deeper psychological elements, challenging the audience to interpret the reality of the monster and Laura's struggles. The film relies heavily on atmosphere and suspense to build tension, using the lake as a symbolic representation of both serenity and hidden danger. The plot features twists and turns that lead to a climactic confrontation, revealing the true meaning behind the monstrous presence.