Killer Pumpkin Scalps Cedar Creek! CARVED (2024) Movie Review

Carved (2024) is a horror-comedy film directed and written by Justin Harding, based on his 2018 short film of the same name. Released on Hulu on October 21, 2024, it lean heavily into a campy, “B-grade” aesthetic reminiscent of 1980s and 90s genre cinema.+1Plot and SettingSet on Halloween night in 1993, the story follows a group of survivors trapped in a historical reenactment village called Cedar Creek Pioneer Village. They must band together to survive a relentless assault by a sentient, vengeful killer pumpkin that has mutated due to a chemical spill. The pumpkin specifically targets those who participated in the village’s pumpkin carving contest.+2Key Details* The Cast:* Peyton Elizabeth Lee as Kira* Corey Fogelmanis as Cody* Wyatt Lindner as Trevor* DJ Qualls as Bill* Chris Elliott as Earl* Matty Cardarople as Clint* Practical Effects: Much like the classics of the era it emulates, the film features significant use of practical effects and puppetry to bring the monster and its “gooey” kills to life. The creature design was handled by Allan Cooke.* Tone & Gore: The film is described as a “splatterfest” with a high body count. It balances over-the-top violence—such as the pumpkin using vines as tentacles to scalp and decapitate victims—with a witty, unserious comedic tone.* Themes: Beyond the monster mayhem, the film touches on “promotion to parent” themes, as Kira is forced to care for her younger brother after their parents’ death a year prior.ReceptionCritical response was mixed, with some reviewers praising it as a “fun seasonal watch” that captures the spirit of Halloween, while others felt it lacked substance beyond its bonkers premise. It has been noted for its “Halloween energy” and its focus on practical “splatter” mastery. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit goreandgrimepodcast.substack.com