Indie Horror 'Marshmallow' Climbs AMC+ Charts With Sci-Fi Twist
A summer camp slasher film with unexpected science fiction elements has become AMC+'s fourth most-watched movie, earning praise from critics who compare it to cult classic 'Donnie Darko'.
Horror enthusiasts constantly hunt for fresh scares. The genre delivers everything from major studio releases to small-budget digital premieres. Independent productions vary wildly in quality, but one recent addition to AMC+ has quietly captured viewer attention.
'Marshmallow' currently ranks as the streaming platform's fourth most-watched film. This summer camp thriller combines horror with science fiction elements, creating what reviewers describe as surprisingly original storytelling.
Camp Setting Masks Deeper Mystery
The plot centers on 12-year-old Morgan, who arrives at an isolated summer camp where campfire tales about a menacing 'doctor' begin manifesting in reality. A mysterious figure stalks the surrounding woods while Morgan and fellow campers struggle to survive.
The official description promises revelations that "challenge everything they thought they knew about fear, identity, and the real nature of their existence." Director Daniel DelPurgatorio and writer Andy Greskoviak crafted a narrative that subverts typical slasher expectations.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Response
The cast includes Kue Lawrence, Kai Cech, Giorgia Whigham, Max Malas, Maxwell Whittington-Cooper, Pierson Fodé, Winston Vengapally, Samantha Neyland Trumbo, Alysia Reiner, Corbin Bernsen and Paul Soter. After premiering at Kansas City's Panic Fest last March, the film received theatrical distribution before streaming release.
Rotten Tomatoes shows an 83% critics score. Reviewer Avi Offer from NYC Movie Guru drew comparisons to Richard Kelly's 2001 mind-bender: "Refreshingly unpredictable, exhilarating, provocative and genuinely heartfelt. It's kindred spirits with another equally smart, surprising and moving sci-fi movie, Donnie Darko."
More Than Standard Slasher Fare
Daily Dead's Matt Donato called it "a sneakily thought-provoking experience that's so much more than what we assume it to be." Audiences awarded the film a 78% score on the platform's Popcornmeter.
One viewer noted: "It is not at all what you think it will be." Another review emphasized: "Marshmallow is not your average summer camp slasher and a crucial reminder that the kids are definitely not alright."
The film's science fiction components distinguish it from conventional camp horror movies. Its cerebral approach delivers both scares and substance, explaining the sustained viewer interest on AMC+.