The Sacrifice Game is a cult horror movie surrounded in holiday wrapping. Set during 1971, the film follows two students who are unable to leave their school over the Christmas break. Just when it looks like things cannot get any worse, a group of cult killers arrive with demonic intentions.
And just like that, we are off to the races. There is dissension, some pretty nifty plot twists, and the need for a virgin sacrifice. It all sounds derivative – and to some extent it is – but it all comes together due to its strong writing. The Sacrifice Game lets audiences know early they are going to be in for a gory experience. The practical effects and bloody kills provide some of the most memorable moments. This does not mean that director Jenn Wexler (who co-wrote the script with Sean Redlitz) only reaches out to the gore hounds, however. Filled with fun reveals and boasting a story that refuses to be pigeonholed, the Shudder Original will keep audiences engaged.
The Christmas setting adds to the fun. Along with being festive, holiday lighting also lends itself to a very tense atmosphere. This is most evident during the cat-and-mouse scenarios of The Sacrifice Game. When the Yuletide feeling takes more of a backseat, dread, mystery, and danger fill the air.
Underneath it all is a moving story about friendship. While there is some familiarity involving the dynamic between Samantha (Madison Baines, 1Up) and Clara (Georgia Acken, Circuit Breakers) the interactions between the pair help drive the story forward. The chemistry between the two is fantastic. Acken in particular helps The Sacrifice Game during its weaker moments.
It can be argued that the Christmas setting for the film is little more than window dressing. Still, The Sacrifice Game is a fun holiday horror movie that uses different elements. Stylish, wacky, and gross, it is a great addition to any holiday horror watchlist that also manages to stand out.
The Sacrifice Game is streaming on Shudder
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