Scott Reynolds’ directorial debut, The Ugly, isn’t just any slasher. It’s a grim, stylized and genuinely uncomfortable look at a fractured psyche. The film takes place within the decaying, claustrophobic walls of an Auckland asylum. Simon Cartwright (Paolo Rotondo), a young, soft-spoken serial killer who has already racked up a body count in the double digits, is looking for a way out. He requests a reevaluation specifically from Dr. Karen Schumaker (Rebecca Hobbs), a psychiatrist with a reputation for high-profile forensic cases.
As the two begin their sessions, the film unwinds through a jagged series of flashbacks. We learn about Simon’s traumatic upbringing under a mother (Jennifer Ward-Lealand) who viewed him as a burden to be broken. It’s here that the title reveals its meaning—a sick, twisted take on the Ugly Duckling fable. Simon isn’t just a killer; he’s a vessel for The Ugly, a violent, psychic alternate persona that demands blood. While Dr. Schumaker tries to diagnose him, she realizes too late that she isn’t just treating a patient. She’s playing with a predator.
Beyond the story, The Ugly is all about great visual storytelling on a budget. Director Scott Reynolds made the bold choice to render all the blood in the film as a thick, viscous black. It’s a striking stylistic decision. And let’s talk pedigree: the makeup effects were handled by the legendary Wētā Workshop. Before they were winning Oscars for The Lord of the Rings trilogy, they were busy turning this low-budget New Zealand shocker into a visceral, squirm-inducing experience.
The Unearthed Films Blu-ray of this film features a new 4K scan from the 35mm interpositive, along with extras such as commentary with actors Paolo Rotondo and Rebecca Hobbs, moderated by Nathaniel Thompson; two of Scott Reynolds’ short films; a visual essay; a photo gallery; and trailers. You can get it from MVD.
