The other spider movie released in 2024 plays far more comedically than its French cousin Vermines. There’s only one offending arachnid in this one, a bloodthirsty space-spider that likes to whistle, which of course, a little girl befriends and tries to keep as a pet. The core is about the girl and step-father trying to connect with each other, and the difficulties in integrating to a new normal. Difficult at the best of times, but exponentially harder with the presence of a giant spider. The characters are likable, and the writing has some decent moments, but the trite family drama derails the film in places. But this is countered with an abundance of cheese elsewhere. And it is pretty funny, the tone set right at the beginning with a flash forward with a very unfortunate exterminator. There are some decent shots and creepy moments, with some creativity with sets, lighting and framing in what is otherwise a very contained setting. The beats are predictable, much inspired by better films, but there's fun to be had if you appreciate a cheesy creature flick and find yourself unnerved by eight-legged horror.
Sting (2024)