'Buddy' is shining example of how to craft a horror film
It has been fascinating to witness the horror genre experience a much-needed resurgence from the formulaic creative approach within the scope of cinema. This year has yielded impressive releases with "Obsession," "Backrooms" and "Evil Dead Burn."
On Sept. 25, I managed to catch a showing of an indie horror film titled "Buddy" directed by Casper Kelly. The trailer opened my curiosity with the creative direction it undertook, involving children's friendly series such as "Barney," "Sesame Street," "The Muppets" and "Pee-Wee's Playhouse" by taking those elements, transforming those concepts into horror tropes and utilizing those methods to craft an innovative, unique and tension-filled cinematic tale.
Before sharing specifics of the film, I want to preface this review by stating: This is not a family-friendly/children-friendly film by any means. It has myriad disturbing and mature themes, excessive violence and leans into bold choices with the amount of blood and gore displayed. My disclaimer is to clear up any misconceptions about "Buddy" being a potential film for the entire family and children to enjoy.
Despite my interest in the plot synopsis, there was a strong level of concern residing in my mind. I was wondering whether the execution of this story would land into excellent territory, creating a strong and powerful reminder as to why horror remains my favorite cinematic genre. "Buddy" is a unique, disturbing and wonderfully intense dark tale of a popular children's television series called "It's Buddy." The character of Buddy is a bright orange unicorn, obviously meant to satirize characters like Barney, Big Bird and other popular mascots and larger-than-life puppets that were prominent during the '80s and '90s.
Like those series, it follows a similar formula of teaching values to children such as friendships, responsibilities, overcoming fear and more imperative lessons that shaped and molded our childhood. However, there is an obvious sinister, nefarious, unsettling force living in the show of "It's Buddy."
Each episode offers clues to the viewers establishing how appearances are deceiving to say the least. Kelly took an interesting approach with how the episodes of Buddy were traditionally filmed as if you were in that show. It gave an organic perspective of the children acting like those characters from "Barney," "Sesame Street" and "Pee-Wee's Playhouse." The aesthetic of its atmosphere was a sincere breath of fresh air, as it reminded me of another great film called "Late Night with The Devil," as that cinematic release featured its presentation with the viewer experiencing the story from a late-night talk show perspective from the '70s. The same process remains formulated with this film, as you can find yourself immersed in this Barney-inspired satirized world.
The beautiful element of this story is how it gradually frames the eerie complications of Buddy, his "friends" and how "off" all elements of the show are and offer a creepy atmosphere.
You as viewer recognize there is a sinister component while not completely able to put your finger on what is transpiring. Buddy, the character, voiced by comedian Keegan-Michael Key, portrays the mascot in a unique and unsettling fashion. As the film progresses into darker, sinister, disturbing territory, you find Buddy's personality remains the same as an upbeat, misguided and calm figure, making him even more terrifying. I always found individuals remaining calm despite exhibiting simmering rage far more intimidating than loud personalities. Simply imagine Barney maintaining his calm and bubbly personality with chaos reverberating.
Even the acting of the children in this film is an authentic experience with how they behave as how one would expect from pre-teen youngsters.
Their performances are exactly how children acted in shows like "Barney," "Sesame Street" and "Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood." It is only when they realize the theme of the series that their acting becomes more believable with the required portrayal of fear.
"Buddy" is another horror film that I maintain and laud as required viewing in a theater setting. It is a memorable experience; the revelatory importance of the plot is what makes this cinematic release worthy of a positive review. There is an imperative underlying message combined with concepts of classic horror film tropes, suspenseful moments, intense acting, disturbing scenes and dark humor that provides levity during all the violent chaos.
"Buddy" is a shining example of how to craft a horror film and wonderful addition to the revival that is continuing in 2026. There is no relying on the gimmick of jump scares. Kelly executed the perfect horror film. My final rating is a 10/10 and two thumbs up for "Buddy." Highly recommended.
To watch Isaiah Ridley's movie reviews online, find him @Izzy's Cinematic Escape on YouTube.