V/H/S/Beyond: A Sci-Fi Horror Anthology Review
V/H/S/Beyond streams on Shudder beginning October 4. This review is based on a screening at Fantastic Fest 2024.
As the V/H/S franchise expands under Shudder’s banner, the quality of its miniature found-footage shockers continues to reach new heights. The same goes for the characters of V/H/S/Beyond: The seventh film in the horror-anthology series keeps things fresh by connecting each of its segments with a science fiction theme, bringing spaceships and aliens (among other genre-appropriate threats) into the mix. This installment represents the most consistent and polished V/H/S film to date, marking a significant improvement from its predecessors V/H/S/99 and V/H/S/85. The energetic compilation starts strong and maintains a solid pace throughout, with no glaring weak links.
Jordan Downey’s “Stork”
Jordan Downey kicks things off with “Stork,” a monster hunt with heavy [REC] and Resident Evil influences. It’s a thrilling segment following a secretive police outfit dubbed W.A.R.D.E.N as they infiltrate a hideout filled with creatures from beyond. Downey’s adept handling of limited budgets creates an exhilarating siege sequence that feels like a cinematic video game. The boot-stomping gore and menacing alien foes come to life through impressive special effects, setting a high bar for the rest of V/H/S/Beyond.
Virat Pal’s “Dream Girl”
Virat Pal follows with “Dream Girl,” an AI-gone-rogue nightmare about two paparazzi facing dire consequences after trying to capture dressing-room photos of Bollywood superstar Tara. The segment combines traditional Bollywood elements with horror, offering a unique twist that sets it apart from the usual V/H/S standards. “Dream Girl” delivers a mix of social commentary, gore, and chaos that aligns perfectly with the anthology’s theme.
Justin Martinez’s “Live and Let Dive”
Next, Justin Martinez presents “Live and Let Dive,” featuring a mid-air collision between a skydiving trip and a UFO. The segment is a rollercoaster of action, blending freefall thrills with an alien pursuit that culminates in a breathtaking climax. Martinez’s direction of the group’s descent is particularly notable, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats throughout the intense sequence.
Christian and Justin Long’s “Fur Babies”
V/H/S/Beyond’s strangest concoction is Christian and Justin Long’s “Fur Babies,” a bizarre tale involving animal rights activists and a twisted doggy daycare owner. The segment is a blend of humor and horror, showcasing the Long brothers’ unique sense of storytelling. “Fur Babies” offers a darkly comedic take on obsession and madness, appealing to fans of unconventional narratives.
Kate Siegel’s “Stowaway”
Last on the agenda is Kate Siegel’s directorial debut, “Stowaway,” written by her husband Mike Flanagan. The segment follows a mother’s quest to document extraterrestrial activity in the desert, offering a more traditional sci-fi horror experience compared to the action-packed earlier segments. “Stowaway” balances suspense and mystery, providing a fitting conclusion to V/H/S/Beyond’s diverse collection of stories.
While wraparound segments have sometimes diminished the cohesiveness of past V/H/S movies, Jay Cheel’s “Abduction/Adduction” effectively sets the sci-fi tone for V/H/S/Beyond. The faux-documentary format adds an intriguing layer to the anthology, bridging the gap between each supernatural tale.