The Unhealer
Movie Trailer
Release Date
June 8, 2021
Genre
Horror, Thriller, Supernatural
Cast & Crew
- Elijah Nelson as Kelly
- Natasha Henstridge as Bernice
- Lance Henriksen as Pflueger
- Adam Beach as Sheriff Adler
- Branscombe Richmond as Red Elk
Director
Martin Guigui
Other Movies Director is Known For
- Beneath the Darkness (2011)
- The Bronx Bull (2016)
- 9/11 (2017)
Producer
Cristina Nava, Galen Walker, Kevin B. Richardson
Writer
J. Shawn Harris, Kevin E. Moore
Budget
$3 million (estimated)
Production Company
Film Bridge International, Horror Business Films
Running Time
94 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
R
Content Advisory
- Graphic violence
- Strong language
- Disturbing images
Movie Story
The Unhealer is a horror-thriller that tells the story of Kelly, a bullied teenager who suffers from an eating disorder known as pica, which compels him to consume non-food items. His life takes a dramatic turn when a faith healer is called upon to cure him. Instead of healing him, the ritual backfires, bestowing Kelly with a dark and dangerous power: any pain inflicted on him is reflected back on the attacker.
As Kelly discovers the extent of his new abilities, he begins to use them to exact revenge on those who have tormented him. What starts as a quest for justice quickly spirals into a brutal and bloody rampage, as Kelly loses control over his powers and descends into darkness. The film explores themes of vengeance, the corrupting influence of power, and the consequences of unchecked rage.
Elijah Nelson delivers a compelling performance as Kelly, capturing the character’s transformation from a vulnerable outcast to a vengeful force of nature. The supporting cast, including Natasha Henstridge as Kelly’s concerned mother Bernice, and Lance Henriksen as the mysterious healer, add depth to the story, highlighting the moral complexities of Kelly’s situation.
As the body count rises, Kelly’s actions attract the attention of the local sheriff, played by Adam Beach, who must navigate the moral ambiguity of Kelly’s powers while trying to stop the escalating violence. The tension builds to a climactic showdown that forces Kelly to confront the monster he has become.
Special Effects
The special effects in The Unhealer are used effectively to convey the gruesome nature of Kelly’s powers. The film employs a mix of practical effects and CGI to depict the violence and supernatural elements, creating a visceral and unsettling experience for the audience. The effects are crucial in illustrating the horrifying consequences of Kelly’s newfound abilities.
Box Office Performance
The Unhealer had a limited theatrical release and found its primary audience through digital platforms and video-on-demand services. While it did not achieve widespread box office success, it gained attention within the horror community for its unique premise and intense visuals.
Filming Locations
- Arizona, USA
Notable Quotes
- “Every scar tells a story. This one’s just beginning.” – Pflueger
- “You wanted to hurt me. Now, you’re going to feel it.” – Kelly
Behind-the-Scenes
Director Martin Guigui and the production team focused on creating a film that balances horror with psychological tension. The film’s desert setting was chosen to reflect the isolation and harshness of Kelly’s world, adding to the movie’s eerie atmosphere. The cast and crew worked closely to ensure the special effects were both realistic and impactful, enhancing the horror elements of the story.
Awards
- Nominated for Best Horror Feature at the 2021 New York City Horror Film Festival
Final Verdict
The Unhealer is a dark and thought-provoking horror film that explores the dangers of vengeance and the moral complexities of wielding power. It stands out for its unique concept and effective use of special effects. While it may not appeal to all audiences, it’s a must-watch for fans of supernatural thrillers and those interested in character-driven horror stories.
IMDb Rating
5.3/10