30 Best Hidden Gem Horror Movies Perfect For Halloween
5. Frailty
Genre legend Bill Paxton was sadly taken from us far too soon, though he lives on through iconic performances in Near Dark, Aliens, A Simple Plan, and One False Move. However, many may not know he was also an emerging talent as a director, as shown in Frailty, the clever chiller that marked his directorial debut.
Set on a fittingly dark and stormy night, Matthew McConaughey steps into Powers Boothe’s FBI agent’s office to tell him his brother is the notorious “God’s Hand” killer. He spins a gripping tale of their upbringing, with Paxton as their father, possessed by a higher power and teaching them to kill in the name of God.
It’s heavy subject matter, but it unfolds like a pulpy page turner, full of atmosphere, shocking twists, and incredible performances. The McConaughey and Boothe scenes are electric, with both charismatic actors playing off each other. However, the flashback storyline takes centre stage. Paxton’s tormented character is one of his most compelling, a working father with a good heart, put to the ultimate test. As a viewer, you’re left questioning whether to sympathize with him or not.
Most importantly, though, the two young actors playing his sons, Matt O'Leary and Jeremy Sumpter, are excellent, adding depth to roles that could’ve been one-note. O'Leary’s character is our sceptical centre point, while Sumpter’s is more naive and easily swayed.
Ultimately, the final twist is divisive, but Frailty deserves far more recognition than it gets.