‘Cherry Falls’ is a Clever Take on Horror Clichés [The Rabid Dog’s House]

The Rabid Dog’s House is a recurring feature at Wicked Horror where contributor Justin Steele uncovers hidden gems, lost classics, and overlooked indie offerings with a little bite. Flying solo or with his co-host Zena Dixon, he will discuss an array of topics covering film, literature, and television. Check out the latest installment below. In this episode we’re looking back at 1999/2000’s Cherry Falls!

Cherry Falls is a 1999 film (officially released in 2000 in the US.) directed by Geoffrey Wright and starring Brittany Murphy, Jay Mohr, Michael Biehn, and Candy Clark. Jody Marken (Murphy) lives in the small town of Cherry Falls with her sheriff father (Biehn) and troubled mother (Clark). Unfortunately, Jody discovers her town has a dark past directly affecting her family as a killer emerges targeting teen virgins. Meanwhile, her fellow classmates decide the only way to take themselves off the killer’s list is to go all the way with each other.

Cherry Falls is a clever twist on the perceived notion that only virginal characters can survive being killed in a horror movie. At the same time, there is bleak commentary regarding the effect hypocritical parental guidance can have on kids. Cherry Falls is for horror fans looking for a fun selection among the witty slashers of the late 1990’s.

Join Justin and Zena below as they discuss Cherry Falls!