Pinocchio: Unstrung (2026)

Pinocchio: Unstrung is written and directed by Rhys Frake-Waterfield, the filmmaker behind Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey and its sequel. In terms of overall quality, this lands squarely between those two films. The direction is competent enough to keep the story moving, but it never rises above the low-budget slasher formula the filmmaker has become known for. The screenplay offers a few interesting ideas by reimagining the classic fairy tale as horror, yet it never fully commits to expanding the concept beyond its premise. While there are moments of creativity, the film is ultimately held back by uneven storytelling and inconsistent execution.

Richard Brake, known for 31 and Barbarian, plays a dark interpretation of Geppetto and gives the film its strongest performance. It would have been easy for the role to become overly theatrical or cartoonish, but Brake keeps his performance restrained and unsettling instead. His quiet menace makes the character feel believable within the film's twisted world, and he adds a level of credibility that much of the rest of the cast struggles to match.

Cameron Bell is tasked with carrying the film as its lead, but unfortunately he never quite rises to the occasion. The performance lacks the confidence and emotional range needed for such a demanding role, making it difficult to stay invested in his character. The film's practical gore effects are a mixed bag, with some kills falling flat while others stand out. The gym sequence is particularly memorable and demonstrates the kind of inventive horror the movie is capable of when everything comes together. Ultimately, though, the inconsistent acting overshadows the stronger moments and becomes the film's biggest weakness.

Overall, Pinocchio: Unstrung is another uneven entry in Rhys Frake-Waterfield's growing catalog of public-domain horror adaptations. There are flashes of potential through Richard Brake's performance and a handful of effective kill sequences, but weak acting and an underdeveloped screenplay prevent the film from living up to its premise. It has moments that horror fans may appreciate, but they aren't enough to overcome its shortcomings. Result: D+

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