Eli Roth delivers on a 16-year-old promise with “Thanksgiving,” the feature adaptation of his 2007 mock trailer from “Grindhouse.” Diverging from contemporary horror norms, the film avoids both Blumhouse jump-scares and A24-style elevated storytelling, embracing the unfiltered nastiness reminiscent of ’80s classics like “Mother’s Day.” Set against the backdrop of a deadly Black Friday sale, the film cleverly satirizes the chaos of consumerism. A year later, a masked killer resembling Plymouth’s first governor embarks on a spree, targeting those linked to the earlier tragedy. The film efficiently introduces a diverse cast, balancing humor and horror while providing ample character depth. As the local sheriff investigates, Jessica, the store owner’s daughter, emerges as a central figure in unraveling the mystery. The film maintains a delicate equilibrium of horror and comedy, featuring a charismatic killer embodying colonial symbolism. While the last third tests the balance between sadism and pacing, “Thanksgiving” emerges as a potential slasher genre revival, promising a fun and entertaining experience that underscores Roth’s filmmaking prowess. Visit Moviesjoy for more!

Watch Thanksgiving 2023 For Free