When Keith Boynton’s The Haunted Forest goes beyond honouring classic horror tropes from the 1980s and earlier, it becomes more than just a tribute to the era; what’s offered is a welcome surprise. The faux introduction instantly sets a nostalgic tone, recalling vintage drive-in B-movies. It also primes viewers for a chilling tale unfolding in the days leading up to Halloween, where the biggest mystery is: who’s hiding behind the mask in this slasher film throwback?
That sense of mystery extends into the real-world backdrop, which feels just as much a character as the cast itself. Even more compelling is the decision to film at Markoff’s Haunted Forest in Poolesville, Maryland—an iconic haunted attraction that adds authenticity and atmosphere. It’s easy to imagine horror fans booking tickets after seeing how immersive this setting is. Yet, the film never feels like a commercial; instead, it fully earns its eerie tone.
This New England–inspired haunt looks downright impressive—bigger even than my local attraction at Galey’s Farm. When the season is ripe, and there’s things hidden in the cornfields, it’s easy to deliver a bit of dread and unease. But unlike the youth-centred side of this regional haunt (with just one barn reserved for grown-ups), The Haunted Forest leans into adult-level gore and scares, designed entirely for a mature crowd who can handle the shock.
Grayson Gwaze plays Zach, a high school senior and comic book artist obsessed with horror. His enthusiasm mirrors the passion of genre fans who love haunted houses and retro horror culture. But when real murders occur at the attraction, his role shifts from employee to reluctant investigator, heightening the suspense. The question lingers—who is truly behind the mask?
With clever misdirection and a gallery of potential suspects, the film delivers the kind of twists horror enthusiasts expect. Relationships complicate things further—can Zach trust his girlfriend, Sarah (Kaitlyn Lunardi)? Or is cousin Mark (Cedric Gegerl) hiding a dark secret? The performances stay grounded, avoiding over-the-top camp while embracing the playful tension of a Scooby-Doo–style whodunit.
What makes The Haunted Forest stand out among recent retro horror films is how it reveres slasher traditions without slipping into parody or imitation. It has the mystery of Scream, the nostalgic atmosphere of 80s slashers, and the seasonal charm of the best Halloween horror movies. The payoff is dark, fun, and worthy of a late-night screening for fans of classic scares.
4 Stars out of 5
For those curious about the real haunt, visit markoffshauntedforest.com for details. It’s a destination that horror fans will probably want to experience in person.
The Haunted Forest Trailer
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