Nix

Nix is a 2022 psychological horror-thriller directed by Anthony C. Ferrante, known for his work on the Sharknado series. Drawing from Germanic folklore, the film explores how grief and trauma can manifest into something terrifying. The story begins with a tragic camping trip where young Tessa Coyle mysteriously disappears at a remote lake. This devastating event shatters the Coyle family, and decades later, the emotional damage still lingers.

Twenty-five years after the incident, the surviving family members continue to struggle with the psychological aftermath. As strange occurrences begin to unfold, they are forced to confront an ancient malevolent entity called “Nix,” a dark presence that seems to thrive on emotional pain and unresolved sorrow. As the boundary between past and present collapses, the family finds themselves caught in a battle between sanity and supernatural forces.

Nix attempts to blend traditional horror with a deeper emotional narrative about family and loss. The film is atmospheric at times, featuring eerie visuals, unsettling sound design, and moody cinematography that build a foreboding tone. However, despite its intriguing premise, the film suffers from uneven storytelling. Many critics noted that the dialogue felt unnatural and the relationships between characters lacked emotional depth, making it difficult for viewers to fully engage with the characters' pain.

Dee Wallace, who plays the family’s matriarch, delivers a mixed performance, sometimes feeling disconnected from the emotional weight of the story. While the film introduces interesting folklore elements, the mythology behind the creature “Nix” is underdeveloped, leaving audiences with more questions than answers.

Although the film sets out to explore serious themes such as guilt, mental illness, and familial breakdown, its execution often falls short. Some scenes aim for emotional resonance but end up feeling confusing or melodramatic. As a result, the horror elements feel more surface-level than psychologically disturbing.

In conclusion, Nix is a horror film that tries to be more than just jump scares. It explores how trauma can create monsters—both literal and figurative—but doesn’t quite deliver the emotional or narrative impact it promises. While it may appeal to fans of indie horror looking for something different, it ultimately leaves many viewers wanting a more coherent and powerful experience.