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Shelby Oaks’ Draws Split Fantastic Fest Reviews Ahead of October 24 Release

The crowdfunded debut from YouTube critic Chris Stuckmann arrives with Mike Flanagan backing under Neon.

Overview

  • Fantastic Fest hosted the U.S. premiere, with Neon’s nationwide theatrical release set for October 24.
  • The crowdfunded feature marks YouTube critic Chris Stuckmann’s directing debut, with producer Mike Flanagan attached.
  • The narrative follows Mia’s years-long search for her missing sister Riley, a former member of a paranormal YouTube team, without revealing key turns.
  • The film blends found-footage and faux-documentary elements before pivoting into a traditional narrative, shifting viewpoints to propel the mystery.
  • Early response is divided, with Gizmodo praising the scares and answers while RogerEbert.com calls it clichéd; FandomWire reports an 83% Rotten Tomatoes score based on 24 reviews.