The Dakota Fanning Vicious preview offers a glimpse into the chilling new horror film directed by Bryan Bertino, known for his work on The Strangers. Set to premiere on October 10 on Paramount+ and Digital platforms, this movie explores fear on a deeply personal level.
A Psychological Horror Experience
Bertino aims to create an atmosphere where fear feels genuine and intimate.
“I find fear to be a very intimate feeling,”
he explains, emphasizing his goal that the audience shares in the terror faced by the lead character, Polly. Dakota Fanning adds that the film delves into Polly’s psyche, depicting her psychological distress while still delivering moments designed to startle viewers.
“It’s a film that gets inside the mind of this woman, and you really experience her psychological terror,”
Fanning says.
“And I hope there are some jumps and screams too!”
The Story Behind ‘Vicious’
The narrative follows Polly, who receives a mysterious package from a late-night visitor containing instructions to place three specific items inside: something she needs, something she hates, and something she loves. What begins as an eerie ritual soon spirals into a nightmarish ordeal. As reality distorts around her and memories falter, Polly is trapped in a harrowing situation requiring impossible decisions. She must confront not only the external darkness but also the shadows within, with everything she cherishes at stake.
Supporting Cast and Production Team
The film’s ensemble features Kathryn Hunter, Mary McCormack, Rachel Blanchard, Devyn Nekoda, Klea Scott, and Emily Mitchell. Bryan Bertino serves as producer alongside Richard Suckle, known for Wonder Woman and Scooby-Doo. Executive producers include Melinda Whitaker and Shane Boucher.
Critical Response to the Film
Reviewer Meagan Navarro describes Vicious as a “holiday horror chamber piece” that prioritizes emotional and experiential horror more than traditional storytelling, stating,
“Three simple rules ignite a nihilistic nightmare in this holiday horror chamber piece, one that emphasizes emotional and experiential horror over storytelling.”
With its focus on psychological terror and a layered narrative, Vicious promises to be an unsettling addition to the horror genre, inviting viewers to experience fear through the vulnerable eyes of Dakota Fanning’s character Polly as the chilling story unfolds.
