Credit: Better Noise Films
Credit: Better Noise Films

Screamfest Horror Film Festival Review: ‘The Retaliators’ (2021) Revenge Is Bittersweet

I recently watched the new horror thriller, The Retaliators, for Screamfest Horror Film Festival. The film was directed by Samuel Gonzalez Jr. (Railway Spine) and Bridget Smith (Sno Babies). It stars Michael Lombardi (Last Knights), Marc Menchaca (Ozark – TV Series), Joseph Gatt (Game of Thrones – TV Series), and Jacoby Shaddix.

The Retaliators

 Synopsis for The Retaliators 

An upstanding pastor uncovers a dark and twisted underworld as he searches for answers surrounding his daughter’s brutal murder. A high-octane original soundtrack and cameos from some of the biggest names in rock music set the tone as this horror-thriller reveals a game of revenge played using a new set of rules.

I’ve never seen a revenge film quite like this one. It was different and refreshing. The Retaliators is a unique story about an upstanding pastor who prides himself on being good and doing the right thing, but when his daughter is brutally murdered, his world turns upside down, and being good comes at a cost.

The Retaliators
Credit: Better Noise Films

Michael Lombardi delivers a riveting and emotional performance throughout the film. His character development is heartbreaking but also motivational as he tries so hard to not let the trauma of losing his daughter change him. Marc Menchaca gives an equally amazing performance that will send chills down your spine. Joseph Gatt plays wicked flawlessly.

The Retaliators
Credit: Better Noise Films

Much of the film plays out more like an intense drama, but there are some truly gruesome scenes that may haunt your dreams. You find yourself wondering what you would do in a situation like this and it’s a scary position to only be in but to put yourself in. The Retaliators is the type of film that you can’t wait to see the outcome of the ending and believe me this is a satisfying one.

The Retaliators is an emotionally draining story but definitely one you’ll want to check out. The film is currently making its way through the festival circuit, so keep an eye out for when it may be premiering near you.

 

About Tori Danielle

Tori has had a passion for Horror and music ever since she was a little girl. She got bit by the writing bug in high school where she was involved in both the school newspaper and the yearbook. While getting her Bachelors degree, she took Journalism and Creative Writing classes where her passion grew even stronger. Now, in between work and family, she spends all of her spare time indulging in music, Horror movies, and nerdy fandoms, all while running/assisting one of the biggest Horror groups on Facebook and writing for various websites.

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