Hellbender

Movie Trailer

Release Date
February 24, 2022

Genre
Horror, Drama, Supernatural

Cast & Crew

• Zelda Adams as Izzy
• Toby Poser as Mother
• Lulu Adams as Amber
• John Adams as Uncle
• Rinzin Thonden as AJ

Director
John Adams
Toby Poser
Zelda Adams

Other Movies Director is Known For

• The Deeper You Dig (2019)
• Knuckle Jack (2013)
• Rumblestrips (2013)

Producer
John Adams
Toby Poser
Zelda Adams

Writer
John Adams
Toby Poser
Zelda Adams

Budget
N/A (Independent Film)

Production Company
Wonder Wheel Productions

Running Time
86 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
NR (Not Rated; contains horror elements, violence, and mature themes)

Content Advisory

• Supernatural violence
• Occult themes
• Mild gore
• Disturbing imagery

Movie Story
“Hellbender” is a gripping and atmospheric horror film that explores the darker aspects of coming of age through the lens of witchcraft and family secrets. The story centers on Izzy (Zelda Adams), a teenage girl who lives in isolation with her mother (Toby Poser) in a remote forest. Izzy is kept away from the outside world, ostensibly due to a rare illness that makes her vulnerable to other people. However, as the film progresses, it becomes clear that the true reason for Izzy’s seclusion is far more sinister.

The mother-daughter duo leads a quiet, almost idyllic life, filled with music and nature. They spend their days playing in a two-person rock band, “Hellbender,” and enjoying the beauty of the forest. But underneath this surface calm lies a hidden power that Izzy is only beginning to understand. When Izzy encounters another teenager, Amber (Lulu Adams), during a rare outing, her curiosity about the outside world and her own identity is piqued. This encounter sets off a chain of events that leads Izzy to discover her true heritage as a member of a long line of witches.

As Izzy’s powers begin to manifest, the film delves into themes of power, identity, and the fear of the unknown. Her relationship with her mother becomes strained as she uncovers more about their dark family legacy. The film is filled with eerie, haunting imagery as Izzy explores the limits of her abilities and the moral implications of her newfound power. The tension between Izzy’s desire for independence and her mother’s need to protect her—both from the world and from herself—forms the emotional core of the story.

“Hellbender” masterfully blends horror with a coming-of-age narrative, creating a unique atmosphere that is both unsettling and poignant. The film’s slow-burn approach to horror allows for a deep exploration of its characters, making the eventual revelations and moments of terror all the more impactful. The film builds to a crescendo as Izzy’s powers reach their full potential, leading to a climax that is both shocking and thought-provoking.

Special Effects
“Hellbender” makes effective use of practical effects and eerie cinematography to create its chilling atmosphere. The supernatural elements are portrayed with a mix of subtlety and shock, enhancing the film’s dark, mystical tone without relying on excessive CGI.

Box Office Performance
As an independent film, “Hellbender” was primarily released on streaming platforms, including Shudder, where it found a niche audience among horror enthusiasts. It received critical acclaim for its unique vision and the performances of the Adams family, who directed, wrote, and starred in the film.

Filming Locations

• Catskill Mountains, New York, USA

Notable Quotes

• “Power is not something that you take lightly.” – Mother
• “You can’t run from what you are.” – Izzy
• “We are what we are, and there’s no changing that.” – Mother

Behind-the-Scenes

• “Hellbender” was created by the Adams family, with John, Toby, and Zelda Adams taking on multiple roles in the production, including directing, writing, acting, and editing.
• The film was shot on location in the Catskill Mountains, where the family lives, adding an authentic, personal touch to the film’s setting and atmosphere.

Awards

• None (Independent film with limited festival exposure)

Final Verdict
“Hellbender” is a unique and chilling exploration of witchcraft and coming of age, offering a fresh take on the horror genre. Its blend of supernatural elements with deeply personal storytelling sets it apart from more conventional horror films. The Adams family delivers a compelling and atmospheric film that lingers with the viewer long after the credits roll. Fans of indie horror and supernatural thrillers will find “Hellbender” to be a haunting and memorable experience.

IMDb Rating
5.8/10