Wild Eyed and Wicked (2024), directed by Gordon Shoemaker Foxwood, is a genre-blending film that intertwines elements of drama, fantasy, and horror. The narrative centers on Lily Pierce (Molly Kunz), who, haunted by her mother’s tragic death two decades prior, grapples with lingering trauma and supernatural disturbances. In an effort to confront these spectral threats, Lily reconnects with her estranged father, Gregory (Michael X. Sommers), a disgraced history professor. Together, they delve into medieval lore, drawing parallels between ancient knightly battles against monsters and their present-day struggles against otherworldly entities.

As Lily sifts through her mother’s belongings, she discovers erratically written letters hinting at a sinister force that has plagued their family for generations. This revelation propels her into a confrontation with an unseen entity, leading to a climactic battle where Lily, clad in armor reminiscent of medieval knights, faces her deepest fears. The film not only explores the supernatural but also delves into themes of inherited trauma, the long-lasting effects of untreated mental illness, and the complexities of familial relationships. Foxwood’s direction, complemented by the cinematography of Matheus Bastos and Eyal Bau Cohen, effectively uses lighting and shadow to blur the lines between reality and fantasy, immersing the audience in Lily’s harrowing journey.