The Block Island Sound

Movie Trailer

Release Date
March 11, 2021

Genre
Horror, Thriller, Sci-Fi

Cast & Crew

• Chris Sheffield as Harry Lynch
• Michaela McManus as Audry Lynch
• Neville Archambault as Tom Lynch
• Jim Cummings as Dale
• Matilda Lawler as Emily

Directors
Kevin McManus, Matthew McManus

Other Movies Directors are Known For

• Funeral Kings (2012)
• American Vandal (2017-2018) – TV Series

Producer
Andrew van den Houten, Ashleigh Snead, Henry Chaisson

Writers
Kevin McManus, Matthew McManus

Budget
$1 million (estimated)

Production Company
Hood River Entertainment, Bluefoot Entertainment, One Bad House Films

Running Time
103 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
TV-MA

Content Advisory

• Intense suspense
• Disturbing imagery
• Violence
• Strong language

Movie Story
“The Block Island Sound” is a slow-burning horror-thriller that blends elements of sci-fi with psychological suspense. Set on the isolated and eerie Block Island off the coast of Rhode Island, the film follows Harry Lynch (Chris Sheffield), a troubled young man dealing with the mysterious and increasingly erratic behavior of his father, Tom (Neville Archambault). As Tom’s strange actions escalate, including bouts of confusion and dangerous nighttime wanderings, Harry becomes concerned for his father’s safety and his own sanity.

Harry’s sister, Audry (Michaela McManus), returns to the island with her young daughter Emily (Matilda Lawler) to investigate what is happening to their father. Audry, a marine biologist, is also conducting research on a series of unexplained fish die-offs that have been plaguing the island. As she digs deeper into the environmental anomalies, she uncovers unsettling clues that suggest a connection between the ecological disturbances and her father’s behavior.

The film expertly builds tension through its atmospheric setting, eerie sound design, and the gradual unraveling of its central mystery. As Harry and Audry confront the dark forces at play, they must grapple with the possibility that something otherworldly is influencing their father and the island itself. The film’s ambiguity and psychological tension keep viewers on edge as the story unfolds, culminating in a haunting and open-ended conclusion that leaves more questions than answers.

Special Effects
“The Block Island Sound” relies on practical effects and subtle CGI to create its unsettling atmosphere. The film’s use of sound—particularly the ominous, low-frequency noises that seem to emanate from the ocean—plays a crucial role in building suspense and unease. The minimalistic approach to special effects allows the tension to simmer, focusing on the psychological impact of the unfolding events rather than on overt horror.

Box Office Performance
“The Block Island Sound” was released on Netflix and received positive reviews for its atmospheric storytelling and unique blend of horror and sci-fi elements. While it did not have a traditional box office run, the film found an audience on the streaming platform, particularly among fans of slow-burn horror and psychological thrillers.

Filming Locations

• Block Island, Rhode Island, USA

Notable Quotes

• “There’s something out there, and it’s calling him.” – Audry Lynch
• “It’s like the island itself is alive, and it’s watching us.” – Harry Lynch

Behind-the-Scenes
Directors Kevin and Matthew McManus, who are brothers, have a background in both horror and comedy, bringing a unique perspective to the film’s tone and pacing. The film was shot on location on Block Island, capturing the isolated and unsettling atmosphere that is central to the story’s tension. The directors have cited their love of psychological horror and the natural beauty of Block Island as key inspirations for the film.

Awards

• N/A

Final Verdict
“The Block Island Sound” is a haunting and atmospheric horror-thriller that effectively combines psychological tension with eerie sci-fi elements. The film’s slow-burn approach and ambiguous narrative may not appeal to all viewers, but those who enjoy unsettling, character-driven stories will find much to appreciate. With strong performances and a uniquely chilling setting, “The Block Island Sound” stands out as a thought-provoking and eerie exploration of the unknown.

IMDb Rating
5.4/10