Review: Daniel Montgomery’s soul-searching ‘THE JESSICA CABIN’ is a little bit horror and a whole lot of heart.

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Nicky and Preston book a weekend in a remote cabin. Preston is a self-absorbed, cheating brat who takes Nicky for granted. Jackson and Taylor are observant and trapped ghosts. Their hopes of bringing Nicky into the afterworld get messy when they trigger a breakup.

Jackson and Taylor have lengthy dialogues consisting of thoroughly engrossing memories. They make the best of their situation, recalling the silly moments, listing off their favorite things, and trying to get any guest to see them mired in loneliness. A third of the way in, we get flashbacks and backstories for our ghoul friends, and things get even more intriguing. We meet the cabin’s owner, the titular character, Jessica.

Riley Rose Critchlow gives a particularly entrancing performance. Their living vs. dead personalities are vastly different but equally grin-inducing. Critchlow captures a relatable sadness, leaving a lasting impression.

Writer-director Daniel Montgomery gives Jackson a quirky sweetness and the best intentions. His chemistry with both Critchlow and Chase Williamson, as Nicky, is effortless. Williamson has the difficult task of processing a ton of information very quickly. His natural presence and authentic spirit (no pun intended) are delightful.

The subtle creepiness is just enough to teeter on the edge, as the film is more drama than your typical horror. THE JESSICA CABIN is a spectacular entry into the LGBTQIA+ genre, perfectly melding comedy, culture, and complex storyline. The film looks at mental health in a stunningly nuanced way. It is crazy charming and superbly funny, pushing moral boundaries while asking existential questions. Seek it out.


Comedic Horror Movie Sets Digital Debut for THE JESSICA CABIN North American VOD Platforms and DVD on September 26, 2023


Written and directed by Daniel Montgomery, THE JESSICA CABIN was produced by Daniel Montgomery and Riley Rose Critchlow of Mary-Kate and Ashtray Productions, Brendan Haley of Lonely Spectre Productions, Chase Williamson, and Jenna Marie Johnson. The featured cast includes Daniel Montgomery (‘Jackson’), Riley Rose Critchlow (‘Taylor’), Chase Williamson (‘Nicky’), Will Tranfo (‘Preston’), Kylee Thurman (‘Jessica’) and Melinda DeKay (‘Mrs. Norris’). THE JESSICA CABIN is a co-production of Mary-Kate and Ashtray Productions and Lonely Spectre Productions in association with Simulated Sky and ReKon Productions.