“Sting," a 91-minute horror film including seven for closing credits, leaves much to be desired. The narrative involves a flesh-eating spider threatening a group of Brooklyn residents but fails to fully capture audience attention due to rushed and underdeveloped characters and scenes. Despite being backed by the renowned Wētā Workshop known for their outstanding creature effects in the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, the film doesn't manage to utilize this asset effectively.
The storyline, written and directed by Kiah Roache-Turner, centers on a nuclear family's strained ties and does not induce thrills or pleasing adventure drama, typical of successful genre movies. The narrative primarily revolves around Ethan (Ryan Corr), a father trying to juggle professional and familial responsibilities, and Charlotte (Alyla Brown), his angsty pre-teen muse.
Though the film teases thrilling moments with Charlotte and her spider pet, Sting, these moments feel generic and underwhelming. Despite the opportunity to explore themes related to spider webs and family life, the film barely scratches the surface of this potential. Even the creature design, despite being rendered by a fantastic team, feels uninspired and mundane.
One major issue is the limited exploration of the relationship between Ethan and Charlotte, which fails to deliver depth or evolution. And even in terms of horror, the action scenes, though filled with spider webs, gore effects, and bodily fluids, are not engaging or suspenseful.
The film also misses opportunities to develop side characters, like Gunter's forgetful sister Helga and Frank, a wisecracking exterminator. They are lost in a narrative that feels sketchy and rushed, leaving the audience wanting more.
In its essence, "Sting" appears imitative rather than innovative, lacking the subtle technique and patience observed in Spielberg's work. The humor is poorly timed, and the action scenes lack energy and significance. The film speeds through key scenes, thwarting the development of empathy for characters or suspense in the narrative. Despite having good ideas, "Sting" lacks the inspirational spark to weave them seamlessly together.
