Courtesy of IMDB
A secluded cabin. A group of friends. A masked killer. Horror fans know this vacation itinerary, and getting the security deposit back is usually the least of anyone’s problems. Kyra Elise Gardner’s “Slay” brings enough personality to make another trip into the woods feel like an invitation worth accepting. With a terrific blend of horror and comedy, gorgeous cinematography, and a killer twist that blindsided me, this film gave me plenty of reasons to enjoy the stay.
At the center of the chaos is Chloe Cruz, a teen influencer played by Zoey Luna. Her life looks perfect online, but behind the carefully curated posts, she’s struggling with the expectations surrounding her. When her best friend is murdered, she and her friends retreat to a secluded, disco-themed cabin to escape the spotlight. Unfortunately, some problems follow you on vacation, and this group has brought plenty of emotional baggage. A masked killer only makes unpacking it more complicated.
One of the biggest strengths of “Slay” is how naturally its horror and humor work together. The comedy makes these characters entertaining to spend time with, while the danger keeps their getaway from becoming too comfortable. I could enjoy the laughs and still get caught up in the mystery. That balance is difficult to pull off, but Gardner makes it look easy. For me, the writing, acting, and directing are far superior to those of several newer horror comedies I’ve watched lately.
The screenplay and story contributions from Jimmi Simpson, Gardner, Zoey Luna, and Catherine Clark give that familiar setup an emotional foundation. Luna’s character is trans, but the story gives her room to exist beyond that part of her identity. Her public image and complicated friendships provide plenty of tension. There’s something unsettling about being surrounded by people who know your insecurities, especially when you’re unsure who deserves your trust. These relationships give the film plenty to explore before a weapon even enters the conversation.
Then there’s the cast. What an ensemble. Luna leads a lineup that includes Aya Cash, Malina Pauli Weissman, Beck Nolan, Sean Giambrone, and Talia Jackson. Joining them are Ruby McCollister, River Alexander, Reise Alexander, and Shawnee Smith. This is easily one of the best casts I’ve seen onscreen in quite some time. Each performer commands the screen in their own way, bringing their character to life and making every brush with death count.
Narrowing down a moment to highlight feels a little like being asked to name my favorite horror movie. How much time do you have? An early scene with the friends hanging out in a garage on Halloween is hilarious and relatable. It’s exactly the kind of interaction that made me enjoy this group. Once they reach the cabin, watching those personalities collide under pressure is just as entertaining. Their panicked reactions when a possible prank turns dangerous are a particular highlight. Every one of these actors deserves their moment in the Hollywood spotlight. I left wanting to follow their careers.
Evan Butka’s cinematography is another major strength. The disco-themed cabin gives the film a colorful personality, even as the mayhem waits in the shadows, sharpening its blade. It reminded me of the high school parties I went to, where the buildup promised something extravagant. You’d arrive to find a few lights, scattered decorations, and considerably more thought put into the music than anything else. That might sound like a complaint, but it brought a smile to my face. Some of my favorite nights with friends started exactly that way. Thankfully, none involved a slasher waiting to carve us up.
Courtesy of IMDB
That party atmosphere makes the cabin a fitting setting for this group, especially Skye, played wonderfully by Ruby McCollister. Her character was already a favorite, and the road trip scenes only made me love her more. McCollister brings that lovable stoner energy that makes you want to pull up a chair and hang out with her. Between the setting and the personalities filling it, “Slay” reminded me why I love the cabin-in-the-woods trope. It’s exactly the kind of getaway I’d want an invitation to, right up until the screaming starts.
As for the twist, I’ll keep the details to myself. I’ve watched enough horror movies that assembling a suspect list has become part of the fun. “Slay” still caught me completely off guard. The reveal was one of my favorite parts of the experience, and it deserves to surprise other viewers too. Go in knowing as little as possible about where this getaway ends.
Following her documentary “Living with Chucky,” Gardner makes her narrative feature debut here. Her father, effects artist Tony Gardner, also contributes his talents. It’s an enjoyable connection for horror fans, but her confident direction deserves its own spotlight. She brings the humor, performances, and visual style together with a clear affection for the genre. That enthusiasm makes the film a pleasure to watch.
I’ve admired Gardner’s work for some time, and “Slay” has made me a lifelong fan. Her contributions alongside Simpson, Luna, and Clark make this a powerhouse creative team I would love to see reunite. I can’t wait to find out what other twisted ideas they have in store.
“Slay” delivers a cast worth cheering for, humor that works, and a mystery that kept me guessing. Gardner has earned my ticket for whatever she makes next. I’ll happily run to the theater, although I may be a little less eager to book a cabin afterward.
Whether it’s slashers in the woods, ghosts in the attic, or killers in the cornfield, ILHM Reviews brings you the frightful horror flick recommendations worth watching. Follow us on Instagram, be sure to listen to the"I Love Horror" podcast, and remember that if you’re a true fan of horror, every night can be a FRIGHT NIGHT!
