Pinocchio: Carved From Darkness (2025) is a chilling horror film that twists Carlo Collodi’s 1883 tale into a dark, supernatural thriller. Directed by Joona Tena and produced by Oceana Studios, this indie horror stars Peter Stormare, Vicki Berlin, and Daniel Nuta, delivering a gory and emotionally charged narrative. In this movie review, we explore why Pinocchio: Carved From Darkness is a must-watch for fans of horror, supernatural thrillers, and dark fairy tale adaptations, offering a fresh, terrifying take on a beloved classic.
A Cursed Puppet’s Vengeful Rampage
Set in a modern world, Pinocchio: Carved From Darkness follows Geppetto (Peter Stormare), a grieving woodcarver who crafts a puppet, Pinocchio, in the image of his recently deceased son, using a cursed block of wood discarded at a crime scene. The wood, tainted by Agatha, a priestess of a dark cult, transforms Pinocchio into a vengeful killer. Meanwhile, teenager Charlie and his semi-alcoholic mother, Nancy (Vicki Berlin), arrive in town seeking a fresh start, while Detective Georgina investigates Agatha’s sinister crimes. Their lives collide with tragic consequences, weaving a tale of bereavement, evil, and retribution.
The script by Paulie Siegel blends horror, psychological drama, and supernatural elements, exploring themes of grief, family ties, and the consequences of dark magic. Director Joona Tena describes it as a “dark modern horror film with poignancy and empathy,” where Pinocchio is “carved from evil but nurtured with affection” ().
Haunting Performances That Anchor the Horror
Peter Stormare delivers a heart-wrenching performance as Geppetto, infusing the role with grief and desperation that makes his descent into darkness palpable. Known for John Wick: Chapter 2, Stormare’s gravitas grounds the supernatural terror. Vicki Berlin, as Nancy, brings raw vulnerability to her portrayal of a struggling mother, her semi-alcoholic turmoil adding depth to the family dynamics. Daniel Nuta plays Ronnie, a local gangster tied to Charlie’s high school circle, with menacing energy, though his role feels secondary. The speculative Charlie and Detective Georgina add layers of youthful rebellion and investigative grit, though their casting remains unconfirmed in some sources ().
The ensemble’s emotional intensity makes the horror feel personal, with Pinocchio’s vengeful actions serving as a chilling reflection of Geppetto’s loss.
