With Thanksgiving just around the corner, many are gearing up for turkey dinners, family gatherings, and festive fun. But for horror fans, this season brings something extra special—a slasher film that’s just as much about the chaos of consumerism as it is about the scares. ‘Thanksgiving’ (2023), directed by Eli Roth, is the horror movie you didn’t know you needed to add to your holiday watchlist.
Wondering what the film is about and how to watch it? We’ve got you covered.
What Is ‘Thanksgiving’ (2023) About?
If you’re tired of the usual holiday movies and want a break from the warm-and-fuzzy feeling of Christmas specials, ‘Thanksgiving’ might just be the perfect fix. This horror film flips the usual Thanksgiving cheer on its head, with a twist of slasher and suspense.
Plot Summary
The movie takes place in Plymouth, Massachusetts—the birthplace of the infamous holiday—and begins after a Black Friday riot goes horribly wrong. What starts as a chaotic shopping frenzy turns into a tragedy, leading to a mysterious Thanksgiving-inspired killer stalking the town. The killer is on a mission to terrorize the residents, using Thanksgiving as the backdrop for their gruesome acts.
The concept of a holiday-themed slasher might sound familiar, but Eli Roth (known for films like Hostel and The Green Inferno) adds his signature flair to make the plot both terrifying and thought-provoking. Roth mentioned in an interview that the idea for the film came after seeing Black Friday fights online, where people got into physical altercations over discounted items. He saw it as a reflection of modern-day consumerism—a concept he wanted to explore in the form of horror.
“It’s about consumerism gone wild—pretending to be thankful but really stepping over others to get what you want,” Roth shared.
So, if you enjoy a horror movie that blends chaos, dark humor, and social commentary, then ‘Thanksgiving’ could be your perfect holiday movie.
How to Watch ‘Thanksgiving’ (2023)
If you’re ready to dive into this Thanksgiving slasher, here’s how you can catch it:
- Netflix: The good news for Netflix subscribers is that you can stream ‘Thanksgiving’ for free if you have an active subscription.
- Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and YouTube: If you’re not a Netflix user, don’t worry! You can stream ‘Thanksgiving’ on platforms like Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and YouTube for a small rental fee.
What Else to Know About the Movie’s Release
Released in November 2023, ‘Thanksgiving’ quickly gained attention for its unique premise and thrills, setting itself apart from the usual holiday fluff. It’s been well-received, with fans praising its sharp social commentary and chilling atmosphere. For horror lovers looking for a holiday twist on their usual fright-fare, this movie certainly hits the mark.
Who’s in the Cast of ‘Thanksgiving’?
With Eli Roth at the helm, you can expect some solid performances from the film’s cast. Here’s a quick look at the main players:
- Patrick Dempsey: Known for his role in Grey’s Anatomy, Dempsey brings a mix of charm and intensity to his character.
- Ty Olsson: Olsson plays a key role in the film, contributing to its suspense and horror elements.
- Gina Gershon: With her impressive range, Gershon adds layers to the narrative.
- Addison Rae: The TikTok star and actress makes her mark on the big screen with her role in this slasher film.
These actors, paired with Eli Roth’s direction, create a strong foundation for a movie that’s as much about character dynamics as it is about the horror.
Why You Should Watch ‘Thanksgiving’ (2023)
1. A Fresh Take on Holiday Horror
If you’re a fan of holiday-themed horror movies like Halloween or Black Christmas, then ‘Thanksgiving’ will feel like a breath of fresh air. It combines the chaos of the holiday season with gripping tension and slasher thrills, offering a unique twist that we don’t often see in typical holiday films.
2. Eli Roth’s Masterful Direction
Known for his dark and disturbing films, Eli Roth brings his expertise in horror to ‘Thanksgiving’ with a storyline that’s both terrifying and socially relevant. Roth is known for pushing the boundaries of horror, and with ‘Thanksgiving’, he taps into themes of consumerism, greed, and the darker side of family gatherings.
3. A Cast to Watch
With a diverse cast including Patrick Dempsey and Addison Rae, ‘Thanksgiving’ isn’t just a horror film—it’s an opportunity to see familiar faces in a completely new setting. Fans of Dempsey’s previous work will especially enjoy his performance here, which shows his range in a genre he’s not typically associated with.
4. It’s Perfect for Your Thanksgiving Weekend
What better way to spend your Thanksgiving weekend than with a horror movie that capitalizes on the chaos of the season? It’s a perfect match for anyone looking for a darkly comedic and thrilling experience during the holidays.
Final Thoughts: Should You Watch ‘Thanksgiving’ (2023)?
If you’re looking to spice up your usual holiday movie marathon with a unique, scary twist, then ‘Thanksgiving’ is definitely worth your time. From its social commentary on modern-day consumerism to its sharp direction by Eli Roth, the film has earned its place as one of the most-talked-about movies of the season.
So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready for a Thanksgiving like no other!
