Anna Daniels
Attention horror lovers! Get ready as “Last Straw,” an indie horror thriller that’s been making a splash on the festival scene, is scheduled to hit select theaters in the US and become available on VOD starting September 20, 2024. This film marks the directorial debut of Alan Scott Neal, who tells the story of Nancy (Jessica Belkin), a young waitress on the night shift at a secluded diner. Her quiet evening takes a terrifying turn when masked assailants target her, pushing her to fight for her life.
The movie premiered at the 2023 Sitges Film Festival and has since appeared at the Paris and Brussels Fantastic Film Festivals, quickly becoming a highlight for fright fans. Neal effectively portrays Nancy’s solitary struggle, transforming the diner into a tense trap. The trailer hints at high stakes, employing the familiar horror scenario of a lone female in peril, while also suggesting a fresh twist as Nancy fights back against her attackers.
Jessica Belkin shines in the role of Nancy, showcasing both fragility and a strong fighting spirit. Her evolution into the “final girl” archetype—a horror heroine who survives and retaliates—brings an exhilarating aspect to the narrative. With strong performances from supporting actors Taylor Kowalski, Jeremy Sisto, Tara Raani, and Joji Otani-Hansen, the film’s atmosphere is charged with tension.
