Initiation
Director: John Berardo / Editor: Kristina Lyons
Feature Film
Whiton University unravels the night a star athlete is murdered, kicking off a spree of social media slayings that force students to uncover the truth behind the school’s hidden secrets and the horrifying meaning of an exclamation point.
Film Festivals: SXSW, Screamfest, Sitges, FrightFest
“Initiation is a unique indie horror-thriller, one with an unprecedented sense of maturity in its filmmaking and thematic aims, even as it gives you the visceral scares you want and need.”
— Collider
“‘Initiation’ sports some stellar practical gore, fantastic chase scenes, and a narrative rooted in college culture — namely, allegations of sexual assault and how little support there is for survivors … It's fun, unpredictable, and one of 2020's most unsung gems.”
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“As exemplified by my legitimate shock over the slayer's identity, Berardo's narrative doesn't fumble suspense. Deaths are exquisitely gory, emotional throughlines are empowered, not forgotten, and the enduring message of exposing decades-allowed toxicity in what should be safe spaces lands with a thunderous impact.”
-IGN: The 13 Best Horror Movies of 2021
“Initiation honors its socially resonant messages while delivering a multifaceted horror experience that’s bloodthirsty, enticingly shot, and vocally unafraid of calling for societal change.”
“… What really makes this neo-slasher stand out is the incredible writing. Initiation wows with its acting and depictions of grief. In general, the meeting of drama and suspense here is exceedingly well done.”
- Bloody Disgusting: The Top 10 Hidden Horror Gems You Might’ve Missed from 2021
“ … The film manages what the recent Black Christmas reboot can’t and delivers a smart slasher with a commentary on our sexist reality … this is a slasher deserving of more eyeballs.”
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