The Dead Thing [Fantasia International Film Festival Review]

by Mike McGranaghan

The main character in The Dead Thing doesn’t speak until almost nine minutes into the film. We spend that initial time learning just about everything we need to know through a series of short, silent snippets from her life. Alex (Blu Hunt) works a dead-end job she doesn’t really care for, has a male co-worker who annoyingly keeps hitting on her, endured some sort of heartbreak, and frequently scans a dating website for guys to hook up with for a night. Clearly, she isn’t entirely satisfied by life. What transpires when she catches a glimpse of real happiness drives this captivating psychosexual thriller, which had its world premiere at the 2024 Fantasia International Film Festival.

One of Alex’s random meet-ups is Kyle (Ben Smith-Petersen), a seemingly nice, respectful guy. They go back to his place, get it on, and end up developing what she feels is a personal connection – one he seems to feel, too. Kyle ghosts her afterward, though, and Alex can’t understand why. She begins to investigate. To reveal any more would be criminal, so I’ll simply say that he has an unusual condition and her desire to be with him is dependent on whether they can get around it. Their bang-up sex keeps him perhaps a little too interested, leading to danger.

The Dead Thing cleverly uses the horror genre to explore how difficult it is to date in the modern world, where everyone has an abundance of baggage. Suspense is generated from the idea that Kyle could be Alex’s “Mr. Right” were there not a serious obstacle in the way. The story observes that we use our phones to find connection, yet those same devices can limit substance because we choose people based on superficial criteria. This is what makes Kyle appealing. He’s different from the one-night stands Alex has become used to. He’s an escape from the dating doldrums.

Director Elric Kane sets a tone of edgy eroticism that immediately captures our attention. He keeps the film lean and efficient, including no unnecessary scenes or belabored points. Kane also has a perfect lead. Blu Hunt (The New Mutants) delivers a performance that deserves to make her a star. In her hands, Alex’s outward cynicism credibly exists alongside her inner sense of hope. We believe her as a young woman who wants no-strings-attached companionship at one level, but a legitimate life partner on the other. Because the actress plays both sides so well, the character’s journey has weight and depth. Hunt is absolutely remarkable here.

The final half-hour of The Dead Thing allows themes of obsession, codependency, and erotic desire to reach their natural conclusions. Several other prominent characters exist within the story, including Alex’s roommate and her sleazy boyfriend, as well as a new male co-worker who – like all the men in the movie – takes a shine to Alex. Each plays an important role in giving this twisted tale its impact. The Dead Thing is a highly original film that will chill you if you’re single and make you feel relief if you’re not.

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