We Need to Do Something

Movie Trailer

Release Date
September 3, 2021

Genre
Horror, Thriller

Cast & Crew

• Sierra McCormick as Melissa
• Pat Healy as Robert
• Vinessa Shaw as Diane
• Lisette Alexis as Amy
• John James Cronin as Bobby

Director
Sean King O’Grady

Other Movies Director is Known For

• Land Grab (2016) – Documentary
• Let’s Be Evil (2016) – Producer

Producer
Bill Stertz, John Malerman, Ryan Lewis

Writer
Max Booth III (based on his novella)

Budget
$500,000 (estimated)

Production Company
IFC Midnight, Hantz Motion Pictures

Running Time
97 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R

Content Advisory

• Intense horror elements
• Disturbing imagery
• Strong language
• Psychological themes

Movie Story
“We Need to Do Something” is a psychological horror-thriller that traps viewers in the suffocating tension of a family’s worst nightmare. The story centers on Melissa (Sierra McCormick), a teenage girl who, along with her family, seeks shelter in their bathroom during a violent storm. What begins as a precautionary measure soon turns into a terrifying ordeal when they find themselves trapped inside with no way to escape.

As hours stretch into days, the family’s dynamics begin to unravel under the pressure of their dire situation. Tensions rise between Melissa’s parents, Robert (Pat Healy) and Diane (Vinessa Shaw), revealing cracks in their marriage and deep-seated issues that have long been simmering under the surface. Melissa’s younger brother, Bobby (John James Cronin), grows increasingly frightened, adding to the chaos and desperation within the small, confined space.

The film masterfully builds a sense of dread and claustrophobia as the family members grapple with not only their physical confinement but also the psychological torment that emerges. The line between reality and nightmare blurs as strange and terrifying occurrences suggest that something far more sinister than the storm may be keeping them trapped. Melissa’s haunting secret involving her friend Amy (Lisette Alexis) adds another layer of suspense, leaving viewers questioning what is real and what is imagined.

“We Need to Do Something” is a slow-burn horror that explores themes of family dysfunction, guilt, and the horrors that can arise from within and without. The film’s tension is heightened by its single-setting location, which amplifies the sense of entrapment and paranoia.

Special Effects
The film relies on practical effects and atmospheric tension to create its horror, rather than extensive CGI. The confined setting of the bathroom is used effectively to evoke claustrophobia, with sound design and lighting playing key roles in building suspense and fear.

Box Office Performance
“We Need to Do Something” had a limited theatrical release and was also available on digital platforms. It garnered attention within the horror community for its unique premise and psychological intensity, although its niche appeal and indie production limited its commercial reach.

Filming Locations

• Los Angeles, California, USA

Notable Quotes

• “Something is out there. We just have to wait it out.” – Robert
• “What if we’re not trapped in here with something, but something is trapped in here with us?” – Melissa

Behind-the-Scenes
The film is based on the novella by Max Booth III, who also wrote the screenplay. Director Sean King O’Grady and the production team worked within the constraints of a low budget and single location to create an intense and immersive horror experience. The film was shot during the COVID-19 pandemic, which added a layer of realism to the themes of isolation and entrapment.

Awards

• N/A

Final Verdict
“We Need to Do Something” is a tense and unsettling psychological horror that effectively uses its confined setting and strong performances to deliver a chilling experience. While it may not appeal to all horror fans due to its slow-burn approach and limited action, it offers a gripping exploration of fear, family dynamics, and the unknown. For those who appreciate character-driven horror with a psychological edge, this film is a worthwhile watch.

IMDb Rating
4.5/10