Stewart Thorndike’s “Bad Things” is a mesmerizing homage to the iconic horror classic, The Shining, meticulously crafted with a queer twist that echoes the director’s knack for reinventing well-trodden narratives. The film takes place within the enigmatic Comley Hotel, an abandoned snowy haven in upstate New York. Ruthie (Gayle Rankin), Cal (Hari Nef), Maddie (Rad Pereira), and Fran (Annabelle Dexter-Jones) enter this eerie retreat, each carrying their own baggage of emotions and past. Cal hopes to rekindle their relationship with Ruthie and reshape the hotel’s future, while Ruthie is haunted by memories of her troubled family. Amid the backdrop of a love quadrangle, the film unravels a tale of unspoken desires, complicated histories, and ominous occurrences.
Thorndike’s artistry lies in her ability to imbue the Comley Hotel with a queer, feminine sensibility while retaining the chilling ambiance reminiscent of Kubrick’s Overlook. The film thrives on psychological suspense rather than overt horror, using Vertigo shots and close-ups to craft an atmosphere of unease. Greenberg’s cinematography plays a pivotal role in creating a claustrophobic yet alluring environment, heightening tension as Ruthie’s mental state becomes increasingly fragile. The cast’s performances are noteworthy, with Gayle Rankin’s transformation into a disturbed protagonist mirroring Jack Torrance’s descent, and Hari Nef embracing Wendy Torrance’s characteristics with a touch of ’70s charm.
“Bad Things” stands out in the landscape of horror cinema by presenting a respectful tribute to its source while weaving in its own distinct queer narrative. Thorndike’s film, available for streaming on Shudder, is an exploration of personal demons and complex relationships, resonating with the LGBTQ community. As Thorndike masterfully fuses the familiar with the novel, “Bad Things” offers viewers a chilling yet inclusive experience that is bound to captivate and intrigue.