A New Take on a Classic
Bambi: The Reckoning, a fresh British horror film directed by Dan Allen and written by Rhys Warrington, is offering a completely different perspective on the forest. This movie reimagines the classic story of Bambi as a dark, violent narrative centered around revenge. As the fourth installment in the Twisted Childhood Universe, also known as the Poohniverse, it has already garnered attention from critics who believe it could be the strongest entry yet.
The plot follows a mother and her young son who find themselves trapped in the woods, only to be pursued by Bambi, now feral after witnessing the death of his own mother. This version of the tale takes a dramatic turn from Felix Salten’s original novel, embracing horror, gore, and a twisted sense of nostalgia. It's a bold departure that delivers a chilling experience for viewers.
Origins and Production
The film was first introduced in late 2022, with further details revealing its place within the same shared universe as previous horror reboots like Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey. Filming took place in London during January 2024, with production wrapping up in just twenty days. The movie made its debut in U.S. theaters on July 25, 2025, marking a significant moment for fans of the genre.
The cast includes notable actors such as Roxanne McKee, Tom Mulheron, Nicola Wright, and Samira Mighty. Despite not having a massive cast or a large budget for special effects, the film manages to create a believable and atmospheric horror experience. The use of CGI is minimal but effective, with much of the tension coming from shadowy shots and the eerie setting of the forest.
Reception and Reviews
On Rotten Tomatoes, the film currently holds a 71% score from 14 critics, with an audience rating of 69% on the Popcornmeter. This makes it the most well-received movie in the TCU so far. Critics have praised the film for its strong visual mood, creepy atmosphere, and emotional moments. While still very much a B-movie with a wild premise, it doesn’t shy away from its absurdity, delivering a dark, weird, and unapologetically violent experience.
Some reviewers have compared it to Cujo, while others likened it to a mix of The Toxic Avenger and Jaws: The Revenge—wild, over-the-top, but oddly satisfying. The technical team behind the film, though small, has managed to create a believable horror experience with their use of CGI, keeping scenes dark and revealing the horror creatures only when necessary.
Critical Acclaim
Cris Kennedy described the film as "bleak, bloody, and effective eco-horror," noting that it serves as a grizzly homage to the trauma of Bambi's past. Stephanie Malone called it "Cujo for the Brothers Grimm aficionados," highlighting it as one of the strongest additions to the Poohniverse. Jaylan Salah praised the spooky, dreamy atmosphere and the memorable giant murder beast, calling it the best in the cinematic series so far.
Luke Y. Thompson noted that at a breezy 81 minutes, the film moves along at a healthy pace, leaving little room for filler. Joel Harley suggested that for fans of the Poohniverse or anyone interested in horror reboots of childhood stories, Bambi: The Reckoning might be worth checking out. He added that while it may not be for everyone, it has definitely made an impact.
Conclusion
With its unique take on a beloved character and a commitment to delivering a thrilling horror experience, Bambi: The Reckoning stands out as a compelling addition to the genre. Its blend of nostalgia, horror, and creativity offers something new for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Whether you're a fan of the Poohniverse or simply looking for a fresh horror film, this movie is sure to leave a lasting impression.
