Is the Slasher Film That Made Fans Want to Throw Up Coming to Netflix?

Fans of horror films are in for a treat as the much-anticipated slasher film, Thanksgiving, directed by Eli Roth, is set to debut on Netflix in the UK on 1 September 2023. This film, which features an abundance of blood and gore, has garnered praise for its thrilling narrative and creative kills, making it a standout addition to the genre.

Last updated: 01 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Thanksgiving debuts on Netflix in the UK on 1 September 2023.
• The film features a high level of gore and creative kills, appealing to horror fans.
• It was directed by Eli Roth and has received positive reviews, including an 84% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
• A sequel has already been greenlit, with filming expected to start later in 2023.
• Thanksgiving serves as a unique take on the holiday horror genre.

The Origins of Thanksgiving

Initially conceived as a faux trailer for the 2007 double feature Grindhouse, directed by Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino, Thanksgiving has transformed into a full-length feature film that has captivated audiences. Roth, alongside co-writer Roger Birnbaum, took the concept of a holiday-themed horror film to new heights, blending dark humour with terrifying elements.

A Gruesome Plot

Set in Plymouth, Massachusetts—historically recognised as the birthplace of the Thanksgiving holiday—Thanksgiving follows a narrative where a tragic Black Friday riot leads to horrific revenge killings a year later. The killer, donned in a John Carver mask and a pilgrim hat, targets residents with a variety of gruesome methods, including bludgeoning and disembowelment. This darkly comedic spin on the Thanksgiving theme has been a significant talking point among fans and critics alike.

Critical and Audience Reception

Upon its release, Thanksgiving received enthusiastic reviews from both audiences and critics, highlighting its unique approach to the slasher genre. The film boasts an impressive 84% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a strong reception among viewers and reviewers.

What Fans Are Saying

Fans have expressed their excitement for the film's creative kills and over-the-top gore. One viewer, Jacob B, stated, “Thanksgiving is a gruesome graphic bloody gory movie... it just literally makes you wanna throw up.” Another fan, Jason S, shared that they typically do not enjoy gory horror but found something special about this film, saying, “Absolutely love it! Watching this every Thanksgiving!”

Why It Stands Out

Many fans have praised Thanksgiving as a revival of the horror genre, with comments like, “the most fun I had in a theatre in 2023” and “the best directorial effort of Eli Roth’s career.” These sentiments demonstrate the film's impact on audiences, suggesting that it has the potential to become a modern holiday classic.

Box Office Success

Thanksgiving has not only made waves with its critical acclaim but also at the box office, grossing approximately $46.6 million (£34.4 million) against a budget of $15 million (£11 million). This commercial success is indicative of the film's broad appeal and the growing interest in horror films within the UK and globally.

Future of the Franchise

The success of Thanksgiving has led to a sequel being greenlit just weeks after its initial release. Roth confirmed that he and co-writer Jeff Rendell are diligently working on the script, aiming for a planned release in 2025. With filming expected to commence later this year, the anticipation for what lies ahead in the franchise is palpable.

Behind the Scenes

The film features a talented cast, including Patrick Dempsey, Addison Rae, Nell Verlaque, Rick Hoffman, and Gina Gershon. Their performances have been noted for adding depth to the film, making the horror elements even more engaging. Critics have lauded the practical effects used in the film, which enhance the overall experience for viewers.

Visual and Thematic Elements

Critics have highlighted the film's strong visual style, with GamesRadar praising its “brilliant stomach-ripping, face-splitting practical effects.” The combination of horror and dark humour, along with a unique premise, ensures that Thanksgiving stands out in a saturated market of horror films.

The Impact of Thanksgiving on the Horror Genre

As a film that combines the elements of a classic slasher with a holiday theme, Thanksgiving has opened the door for further exploration of holiday-themed horror. The film's success reflects a growing trend where audiences are increasingly embracing innovative and entertaining horror films that push boundaries.

Potential for More Holiday Horrors

With the positive reception of Thanksgiving, it is likely that other filmmakers may be inspired to create their own holiday-themed horror films. This could lead to a new wave of creative storytelling that combines the festive spirit with chilling narratives, allowing horror enthusiasts to enjoy their favourite genre throughout the year.

Conclusion: A Must-Watch for Horror Fans

Thanksgiving offers a thrilling cinematic experience filled with over-the-top gore and dark humour, making it a must-watch for horror fans. Its arrival on Netflix on 1 September 2023 provides an excellent opportunity for viewers to experience this unique slasher film from the comfort of their homes. As the genre continues to evolve, Thanksgiving stands as a testament to the creativity and innovation possible within horror filmmaking.

As the excitement builds for its Netflix debut and the upcoming sequel, one can only wonder how Thanksgiving will influence the future of horror films. Will it set a new standard for holiday-themed horror, or will its success inspire even more creative approaches within the genre? The answers remain to be seen, but one thing is clear: horror fans have much to look forward to this September. #ThanksgivingMovie #HorrorFilms #EliRoth

FAQs

When is Thanksgiving releasing on Netflix in the UK?

Thanksgiving will be available to stream on Netflix in the UK starting on 1 September 2023.

Who directed Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving was directed by Eli Roth, known for his previous work in the horror genre, including films like Hostel.

What is Thanksgiving about?

Thanksgiving follows a killer in a pilgrim mask who seeks revenge after a tragic Black Friday incident, leading to a series of gory murders in Plymouth, Massachusetts.

How has Thanksgiving been received by critics?

The film has received positive reviews, boasting an 84% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many praising its creativity and gory elements.

Is there a sequel planned for Thanksgiving?

Yes, a sequel has been greenlit and is expected to start filming later in 2023, with a planned release date in 2025.