It Feeds: But It Doesn’t Pander as Chad Archibald’s Indie Horror Finds Its Bite

By Thom Ernst

Rating: B+

Horror enthusiasts will likely notice parallels between Canadian horror director Chad Archibald’s It Feeds and David Robert Mitchell’s It Follows — similarities that extend beyond their titles.

However, don’t approach It Feeds expecting a sequel to Mitchell’s film, which already has a follow-up, They Follow, in the works, although a release date remains unconfirmed. While both films share the thematic DNA of parasitic demon narratives, comparing them isn’t necessary. Why pit cakes against cupcakes when both are equally delicious?

It Feeds screens as part of National Canadian Film Day. Read more about it…

That said, it is valid to compare cakes to cakes, especially when evaluating It Feeds in the context of Archibald’s own body of work. Archibald is a director, writer, producer, and one of Canada’s most prolific independent horror filmmakers.

His films exude a gritty passion that aligns him with some of the most accomplished voices in Canadian independent cinema. While It Feeds fits seamlessly into his horror legacy, it also flirts with the risk of nudging him into more mainstream territory without alienating his independent roots.

It Feeds is Archibald’s most refined work, a passport-holding horror film that crosses freely into mystery, thriller, and family drama. It’s a Lovecraftian nightmare threaded through the fabric of a Linwood Barclay thriller. Squint and you’re liable to catch a faint trace of Gilmore Girls’ wholesomeness—granted horror’s version of wholesomeness is not traditional wholesomeness.

Despite its broader appeal, the film does not compromise on its indie spirit. It resists pandering to cinematic shortcuts, nor does it revel in a muddled complex reality (it’s a remarkable accomplishment that by the end, everything makes sense).

Instead, It Feeds delivers a layered and unpredictable narrative. Much of that independent energy comes from its strong ensemble cast: Ashley Greene, Ellie O’Brien, Juno Rinaldi, Shayelin Martin, Shawn Ashmore, and Scott Baker.

Greene leads as Cynthia Winstone, a single mother gifted with the ability to enter her clients’ subconscious, unearthing repressed traumas — though often at the cost of her own mental and physical well-being. Her daughter, Jordan (Ellie O’Brien), aids in her work, but mother and daughter are frequently at odds over issues of empathy, experience, and independence.

The film’s push into a deeper horror unfolds when Riley (Shayelin Martin) arrives at their door, terrified, scarred, and begging for help. Cynthia’s response is shocking: she turns the girl away, demanding Jordan do the same. It seems cruel and out of character.

But Jordan’s compassion overrides her obedience, and what follows is a descent into a horror far more insidious than Jordan anticipated, but exactly what Cynthia was all too wary of. Hardly a spoiler to say: not everything is as it seems.

In her role as Riley, Martin is tasked with a character who significantly impacts the story; it’s a heavy burden to place on the shoulders of someone so young, and yet she delivers.

In a secondary role, Rinaldi portrays Agatha, a neurotic and well-meaning yet somewhat socially awkward link between Cynthia and Jordan. Agatha serves as the film’s comic relief and a reminder that the movie, despite its heavy themes of confinement, abuse, and supernatural horror, is indeed a film to enjoy.

Rinaldi infuses her character with humour, while also being more than just the film’s punchline. Her timing remains solid, even though a few comedic moments feel forced.

Archibald effectively utilizes the film’s 104-minute duration by eliminating superfluous exposition and misleading clues. The backstories are skillfully integrated into the narrative, often revealed through character development and actions rather than dialogue.

With It Feeds, Archibald doesn’t just deliver another horror film — he refines his craft, expanding the scope of indie horror while staying true to its roots. As dark and unsettling as It Feeds can be, it’s also one helluva entertaining thrill ride.

It Feeds. Directed by Chad Archibald. Starring Ashley Greene, Ellie O’Brien, Juno Rinaldi, Shayelin Martin, Shawn Ashmore, and Scott Baker. Screening April 16 as part of National Canadian Film Day, and opening wide April 18.