Movie spotlight
Dismal
Businessman Bill Masterson is out of his element on a long fishing weekend, but outdoorsman Matt Murphy is there to help. Or so Bill thinks. Matt has his own reasons for bringing Bill out into the 100,000 acres of Virginia's Great Dismal Swamp. The swamp has plans of its own, and the men struggle against natural dangers, otherworldly scares and a predator -- in the form of reclusive survivalist Croaker Norge. Croaker will do anything to remain undetected and is quick to punish anyone who crosses him. The men's wives, Cindy Murphy and Tina Masterson sense something's wrong and start searching for their men. Even as they convince Ranger Rettig to call up an all-out search, Croaker takes things into his own powerful hands. A twisting physical battle turns into a twisted psychological war -- both sides determined to stay alive and free. Anyone can enter -- but not everyone leaves the Great Dismal Swamp alive.
Insights
Plot Summary
A woman finds herself trapped in a secluded, dilapidated house with a mysterious and potentially dangerous man. As she tries to escape, she uncovers unsettling truths about her captor and her own past. The film delves into psychological torment and the struggle for survival in isolation.
Critical Reception
Dismal received mixed to negative reviews from critics, with many citing its slow pacing and predictable plot. While some performances were noted, the film struggled to make a significant impact.
What Reviewers Say
The film suffers from a lack of tension and a predictable storyline.
Performances are uneven, failing to elevate the weak script.
The psychological elements are not fully realized, leading to a disappointing thriller.
Google audience: Audience reception for Dismal is scarce and generally unfavorable, with viewers often finding the movie to be slow, unengaging, and lacking in suspense.
Fun Fact
Actress Daphne Zuniga, known for her roles in 'The Fly II' and 'Melrose Place', starred as the lead in this independent thriller.
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