Dementer, poster

Dark Star Pictures presents the atmospheric and chilling psychological thriller, Dementer, starring Katie Groshong and Larry Fessenden. Writer/director Chad Crawford Kinkle examines the mental and physical breakdown of a protagonist in a constant state of paranoia.

“The film follows Katie (Katie Groshong), a young woman who flees a backwoods cult and takes a job at a care center for special needs adults in her determination to do some good with her life. But despite her best intentions, Katie can’t escape the signs that “the devils” are coming for Stephanie, a woman with Down syndrome she cares for, who keeps getting sicker despite Katie’s rituals to ward off evil spirits.”

Here are 5 reasons why you should watch Dementer:

5) Katie Groshong!

As a strong presence, Katie Groshong presents her character as a struggling protagonist searching for redemption. With her honest expressions, Groshong understands the difference between being fragile and becoming vulnerable on-screen. Viewers will automatically follow Groshong along because of her dynamic charisma. 

4) Larry Fessenden!

Shoutout to Larry Fessenden’s multi-layered performance in Dementer! I don’t want to say too much but I have to praise Fessenden’s approach to the material. His character, Larry, could have been a simple approach but he doesn’t give away easy gimmicks. 

3) The Themes!

Most of the movie takes place at a care center for special needs adults. The cinematography by Jeff Wedding doesn’t look at them in a mocking or mean-spirited tone. Portrayed in a documentary style, the special needs adults are living out their daily routines even more honestly than others. 

2) The Direction!

Writer/director Chad Crawford Kinkle underlines the film with a creeping and slow-burn sense of suspense. The tension escalates for Katie as the terrifying conclusion draws nearer. Also, it’s important to note Kinkle looks at the special needs adults as human beings instead of social outcasts.

1) Wickedly Terrifying! 

A suspenseful chiller, Dementer is wickedly terrifying from start to finish! Viewers are in for a bone-chilling creep-fest. 

Dementer will be released on all digital platforms March 2, 2021.

By Jorge Solis