Daddy’s Head has been on my radar ever since I saw some of the creepy first-look images from the film. Luckily, I had the chance to check out the film from writer/director Benjamin Barfoot at Fantastic Fest ahead of its streaming debut on Shudder later this month.

The film focuses on a stepmother, Laura (Julia Brown) and a young boy, Isaac (Rupert Turnbull), following the death of the boy’s father, James (Charles Aitken). The death is quickly introduced in the film, with a haunting look at the father’s bandaged and bloody face in a hospital setting. Laura struggles with her new role as the sole guardian of Isaac, which we see right away as she coldly sends him to say “goodbye” to his dying father. At home, in their sprawling and secluded estate, the two remain withdrawn and isolated in their grief. Laura resorts to drinking, and we see Isaac consumed by videogames in his room alone.

Daddy’s Head really amps up the creepiness with the set and creature designs. Throughout the film, there are hints as to what’s to come, with Isaac’s room filled with nightmare-inducing drawings. There are also several moments that make you wonder if the characters are dreaming, or if there is something sinister lurking in the darkness, which really make the creature’s reveal that much more impactful. The film paces itself in a way to slowly introduce the monster, and when it’s finally revealed, you are left horrified.

Mixing both practical effects along with some 3D animation, Daddy’s Head successfully creates something pulled straight out of your worst nightmare. The monster, which lurks in the shadows, is shown in quick glimpses. Although its quick, the imagery really sticks with you. The creature is fast and crawls on all fours, mimicking James’ face. It’s manipulative and sneaky, which further pushes the boundaries of Isaac and Laura’s already rocky relationship. While it definitely is a haunting film, the horror is amplified by its emotion. It’s an emotionally moving film, which is pushed through the complicated relationship between Laura and Isaac.

Both Isaac and Laura are grieving, and their grief is depicted movingly by each actor, with each presenting their grief in almost opposite ways. Laura is cold and matter of fact, constantly reminding Isaac that his father is dead, and Isaac holds on to hope and continues to deny this fact. I was especially impressed by Turnbull’s performance as Isaac, considering his age. He teeters between rebellion and tragedy with such skill. There are several moments that Turnbull expresses such desperation and denial that brought me to tears.

Something I especially loved about the film is how there was a lot left to speculate, especially when it came to the creature (I won’t say more, however, to avoid spoilers). The portrayal of grief, in conjunction with the with creature also comments on our vulnerability in these moments. Overall, Daddy’s Head is a chilling film that is brought to life movingly with spectacular performances and haunting set and creature designs.

We give Daddy’s Head a 4/5.