Home / Arts and Entertainment / Killer Wears Victim's Face in Grisly Slasher
Killer Wears Victim's Face in Grisly Slasher
12 Sep
Summary
- Three siblings scatter father's ashes, facing a brutal killer.
- The killer wears the faces of past victims as a mask.
- The film visually contrasts a beautiful natural setting with violence.
The survival slasher film "River" opens with a disturbing auditory introduction to its brutality before revealing its scenic yet sinister setting. The narrative centers on three siblings who undertake a somber journey to scatter their father's ashes on his favorite river.
As the siblings navigate their grief and complex family dynamics, they become stranded with a malfunctioning boat and no communication. Their predicament takes a terrifying turn when a relentless, grotesque killer emerges. This antagonist, an imposing figure standing 6-foot-8, wears the faces of his former victims as a mask, adding a chilling personal element to his violence.
Director Joshua Giuliano delivers a classic slasher experience, emphasizing visceral horror and striking visuals. Despite the film's bare-bones plot, its aesthetic strength lies in the stunning cinematography that highlights the beautiful natural environment, creating a stark contrast with the unfolding carnage. The film premiered at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival and is set for a future release by Independent Film Company and Shudder.
