Shelby Oaks: Early Fantasia Review

Of all the films premiering at this year’s edition of the Fantasia Film Festival, very few have piqued the interest of genre fans everywhere, like Shelby Oaks. The feature directorial debut of YouTube film critic Chris Stuckmann (who also wrote and co-produced the film), it was recently snapped up for theatrical release by Neon, who are riding high as a genre distributor following the success of Longlegs. Many of his fans are curious whether Stuckmann’s on-camera criticism translates into solid directorial chops.

Written by Chris Bumbray
Narrated by Chris Bumbray
Edited by Lance Vlcek
Produced by John Fallon
Executive Producer: Berge Garabedian

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#joblohorror #shelbyoaks #chrisstuckmann #fantasiafest

[luxurybuzz]

I can't wait to see Chris Stuckmann review of Shelby Oaks

[AmityFeatures]

Kind of what I expected, but I commend Stuckmann for going out and doing it. I hope he improves with experience.

[WarlordRising]

Roger Ebert was a critic for porn films before he wrote the screenplay for Beyond the Valley of the Dolls. It wasn't well received at first, but it later became a cult classic.Some people have natural artistic talent. For others, it takes time and hard lessons learned. Respect to Stuckmann for chasing the dream. On the same token, he must be able to be receptive to the same criticism we're all entitled to.

[PaulMelia]

Just cos you like movies doesn't mean you will be good at making them. That said good on him for trying and following his passion.

[Mr_Flerb]

I know reviews are largely subjective, but I think you can be more descriptive than “not scary” and “million times better.” You can offer criticism of the pacing, acting, structure, etc, without revealing the twist.

[Whocares]

The word “Shelby” probably has to be the least scary word in the English language. Shelby Oaks sounds like a trailer park.

[HitorMissHallmark]

I was at the Fantasia premiere as well, and my hopes were pretty high for this feature. I think it's commendable what he did with his kickstarter campaign and getting distribution by Neon, I mean, that's a literal dream come true, so hats off to him for all of that. I do agree with you though. I was hoping for more risk, more creative choices (with the exception of "that" moment). It was pretty safe. But, there's promise. Really curious as what he does next.

[djtenzen]

The promo art says it all, no shade. But it does.

[konghere]

Good film or not, i respect Chris Stuckmann for making the transition from youtube content creator, to being in the film industry. Especially working with flannagen and being picked up ny Neon. Thats a huge success no matter what imo.

[Haplog]

I don't think anyone thinks a Critic can't become a director

In Stuckmanns case, it feels more that he compromised his criticism to further his directorial aspirations.

[drewmcgill]

Yes, because almost every film has the clause of not giving full reviews until the embargo drops.

[LuckySTR]

The lack of Zod's snapped neck is a no go for me

[Bluboy]

I'm not a die hard Chris Stuckmann fan, I've only discovered his channel a couple of years ago. While I like some of his reviews, I feel like he's holding back on some movies that he reviewed and didn't like. Glad to see he made the jump to actually making a movie. But I'm not surprised that this one isn't that great.

[OmarHudson]

I respect an honest review. Good for you. You knew the hate you would receive for being honest and you did it anyway.

[harlemdeni]

1) A 5/10 directorial debut is NOT BAD at all. It was mentioned a couple of times that the twist is great and I'm looking forward to it.
2) Being a great, or at least the most subscribed film critic on youtube doesn't mean it'll all translate into making great, or even good movies. I think Stuckmann was fully aware of that, but!
3) Kudos to him for making his dream come true. Whether this movie is a masterpiece, a mediocre one like this review says, or pure hot garbage - millions of people only dream about this, and he actually did it.

[henriette]

I dare anyone to watch Chris's short films and consider whether he has the potential to make a decent movie.

[pesky]

If I were to review this comments section, I would rate it uninspired and extremely predictable. One side loyal to Stuckman, one side frothing at the mouth for a reason to criticize him.

[prasantabehera]

Chris is a first time director and had been very passionate about his film. Am glad he found a major studio to distribute his film. You should also now try making a horror film since you are an ardent horror fan like Chris Stuckmann.

[thesnerg]

I’ve always seen Chris as a very sensitive guy through his reviews and comments, there’s a lot of unconfident wishy washy energy through his film, it could’ve been good with a more confident locked in director.

[tyleradams]

I was cautiously optimistic about Shelby Oaks...his sorta *best* short film was pretty awful, the writing especially. But his enthusiasm and effort on Shelby Oaks had me hopeful. I also thought with more stakes for him he might rise to the occasion. I hope he improves and has another shot at a feature. Curious: How were the VFX in the film? Were they well done, or did they stick out like a sore thumb?