The Weird Kidz feels like its been plucked out of a different time, with its 90s vibe and gory set pieces.
We follow a trio of young boys who spend their days playing arcade games in their local town. They are given the chance to go on a road trip with one of the boys’ older brothers and his new girlfriend plus dog companion Grimbles.
They are all outsiders in their ways, and while they are initially hollow characters, director Zach Passero ends up crafting some interesting character arcs.
The fivesome are pitted against the urban legend of The Night Child, a giant ant that holds their small town hostage.
There are some oddly funny moments and Passero really captures the brashness of being a teenager where at times you feel like you will live forever and don’t fear anything.
The obvious comparison is with the kids from Stranger Things or IT, but The Weird Kidz does try to carve its own path. There is some atmosphere to its more suspenseful sequences plus its not afraid to get bloody, where needed.
The Weird Kidz is a fun and refreshing watch which will play great with festival audiences.
The Weird Kidz screens as part of Frightfest 2023.
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