Hellbilly Hollow (2026)

-Written by Kyle Bain. 

In the backwoods of Alabama, a group of paranormal podcasters finds themselves in the midst of horrifying debauchery as they attempt to uncover the secrets of Hellbilly Hollow, a redneck-owned-and-operated haunted attraction. 

I’ll start by saying that Hellbilly Hollow is not a good film, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t possess cinematic or entertainment value. Do I care about the characters? Certainly not? Do I even really care about the narrative? Interestingly enough, nope! However, this film possesses a level of charisma that is infectious and allows viewers to remain present in it throughout. Again, the charisma present in the setting, the gusto of each of the performances, and the action-packed nature of Hellbilly Hollow are inviting—even if every inch of this film is blood-soaked and grotesque. 

What ultimately works for the film, beyond the passion that was clearly inserted into it, is the use of the filming locations to transport viewers to a place that feels grounded and familiar, yet eerily isolated and terrifying. If you’ve ever been to one of those haunted operations that seem to pop up in the middle of nowhere every October, you’re familiar with what is being presented to viewers in Hellbilly Hollow. 

An old farm converted into a haunted attraction is the primary setting of this film; again, this is something you’re likely to understand. The typical hustle and bustle of these locations is on full display, and the characters (whether primary, secondary, or simply existing in the background) act as the nervous system for Hellbilly Hollow. Each one is uniquely vibrant and allows the film, and its all-important setting, to remain accessible from start to finish. The familiarity, however, doesn’t hinder its ability to become intense, as the darkness that surrounds the farm helps to develop a sense of isolation that transcends the production. 

For many fans of the horror/slasher genre, they look forward to the action-packed, bloody moments that often define those films. Hellbilly Hollow won’t fail to entertain if that’s what you’re looking for. Death after death propels the film forward, and while that doesn’t necessarily make this a good film, it does express that Writer Bernadette Chapman and Director Kevin Wayne know what they want their film to be and that they are willing to make good on their promise of the usual slasher algorithm.

Hellbilly Hollow doesn’t look to transcend cinema and make its mark on the world. Rather, it understands its audience and how to appeal to them. Hellbilly Hollow doubles and triples down on the slashing—but also comes to life with a vibrancy that exists in the setting, which ultimately acts as the connective tissue holding the entirety of this film together. 

Directed by Kevin Wayne. 

Written by Bernadette Chapman. 

Starring Reid Meadows, James Lowery, William Croteau, Kurt Deimer, Doss Cleveland, etc.

6/10 = WATCH IT FOR FREE