New Horror Film with A Near Perfect Score is Taking Over HBO Max

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A new independent horror film is quickly becoming a hit on HBO Max, reaching the top spot on their list of most popular streaming movies. It’s also receiving rave reviews from critics on Rotten Tomatoes – a rare accomplishment for today’s horror films. Both viewers and critics are saying it’s a welcome and original take on a genre that’s been predictable, using familiar horror elements to create a rich and frightening story.

The thriller Eye for an Eye, released in June 2025, features Whitney Peak (known from Hocus Pocus 2), Finn Bennett (A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms), and Golda Rosheuvel (of Bridgerton). The film follows Anna, a young woman grieving the loss of her parents. She moves from New York to live with her estranged grandmother in a quiet Florida town, but soon feels incredibly alone. Anna makes some superficial friends who involve her in a disturbing act of violence against a younger child. This leads to her becoming targeted by Mr. Sandman—a vengeful spirit of a mistreated child who haunts and then attacks bullies. Now, Anna must make amends for her mistakes or risk becoming Mr. Sandman’s next victim.

Eye for an Eye Leaves Critics Thoroughly Impressed

In the horror film Eye for an Eye, the main character, Anna, seeks connection and community to cope with loss, and this journey explores themes of grief, guilt, and mourning. C.H. Newell of Father, Son, Holy Gore gave the film 3 out of 5 stars, praising its exploration of the lasting effects of hatred and the power of admitting wrongdoing. The film feels particularly relevant today and draws inspiration from classic horror movies like Nightmare on Elm Street, Whatever Happened to Baby Jane, and Dreamscape, while still offering a fresh take on the genre.

Shelagh Rowan-Legg of Screen Anarchy describes Eye for an Eye as a strong addition to the tradition of horror films where wrongdoers face consequences, praising its immersive atmosphere and realistic portrayal of grief. While not groundbreaking, the film effectively uses classic horror elements to create a story that’s both comforting in its familiarity and surprisingly fresh, cleverly tapping into our natural longing for connection to heighten the suspense and fear.

Eye for an Eye is a standout indie film with strong acting, a well-written story that delivers on its potential, and genuinely unsettling themes. Its impressive 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes is well-deserved.

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2026-02-15 22:20