Movie Review: Mercy (2014)

Mercy, directed by Peter Cornwell and based on Stephen King’s short story “Gramma,” is a supernatural horror film that blends family secrets, eerie occurrences, and dark magic. The story follows two young brothers, George (Chandler Riggs) and Buddy (Joel Courtney), who move with their single mother (Frances O’Connor) to care for their dying grandmother, Mercy (Shirley Knight), in her remote home. As they settle in, George discovers clues hinting that Mercy’s failing health may be tied to a dark, supernatural force, and he begins to uncover disturbing family secrets tied to her past.

Chandler Riggs, known for his role on The Walking Dead, delivers a strong performance as George, the inquisitive, brave young boy at the center of the story. His growing fear and curiosity drive the narrative, and Riggs effectively conveys his character’s mounting terror and determination. Shirley Knight is haunting as the mysterious Mercy, managing to embody both frailty and menace. The supporting cast, including Frances O’Connor, adds to the family dynamics, but their roles are somewhat limited, as the story largely focuses on George’s relationship with his grandmother.

The film relies on atmospheric tension and slow-building suspense rather than overt scares, with its isolated, rural setting adding to the sense of foreboding. Director Peter Cornwell makes good use of the confined spaces in the grandmother’s house to create a claustrophobic feeling. Mercy has moments of psychological horror and disturbing visuals that hint at the supernatural, but it occasionally struggles to balance these elements, leading to pacing issues that can feel uneven.

While the premise is intriguing and carries some of Stephen King’s signature blend of family drama and horror, Mercy doesn’t fully capitalize on its potential. Some of the darker themes and supernatural lore feel underdeveloped, and the film’s conclusion may leave some viewers wanting a more satisfying or conclusive ending. It’s a film that scratches the surface of generational curses and hidden family secrets without exploring them in great depth.

Overall, Mercy is an interesting, albeit uneven, horror film that will appeal to fans of supernatural stories and Stephen King adaptations. While it lacks the depth and punch of King’s best works, it has moments of eerie tension and solid performances that make it a decent choice for a low-key horror night.