Shelley Duvall’s Final Performance: A Chilling Return in The Forest Hills

Shelley Duvall makes a powerful return in her final film, *The Forest Hills*, a horror story of bloodlust and family strife, after a two-decade Hollywood hiatus.
SummaryThe trailer for *The Forest Hills* unveils the final performance of Shelley Duvall, renowned for roles in films like *The Shining*. After retiring from Hollywood post-2002, she returned for this independent horror film following an invitation from writer-director Scott Goldberg. The trailer, now available online, introduces the story of Rico, who develops a bloodlust after an incident in the Catskill woods, complicating his relationship with his family, including his mother, portrayed by Duvall. The film features a cast of horror veterans and showcases impressive gore effects, positioning it as a noteworthy release for the Halloween season. Duvall’s return to the screen after two decades, despite her past retirement due to various personal reasons, adds to the film’s intrigue.

The trailer for *The Forest Hills* offers a glimpse into the swan song performance of the late actress Shelley Duvall. Renowned for her roles in Robert Altman films such as *Popeye*, *Nashville*, and *3 Women*, as well as her portrayal of Wendy Torrance in 1980’s *The Shining*, Duvall stepped away from the Hollywood scene after her part in the 2002 film *Manna From Heaven*. However, she emerged from her hiatus for the independent horror project after writer-director Scott Goldberg extended an invitation to participate, marking her final role before her passing due to diabetes-related complications in 2024.

The official YouTube channel for *The Forest Hills – A Scott Goldberg Film* has released the movie’s trailer, announcing its availability for purchase on DVD and Blu-Ray via the film’s official website. The trailer introduces viewers to the narrative of Rico (played by Chiko Mendez), who develops an unsettling bloodlust following an incident in the Catskill woods. This new craving further strains his already troubled family dynamics, featuring his mother (Duvall), who reflects on a memory of locking him in a car during his childhood. You can view the full trailer below:

What The Forest Hills Trailer Reveals

Shelley Duvall’s Final Return to Horror

The *The Forest Hills* trailer highlights Shelley Duvall’s enduring screen presence, even after a 20-year departure from Hollywood. The extent of her involvement in the film remains uncertain, but the trailer suggests she appears in several scenes, hinting at a potentially significant supporting role.

Duvall’s decision to retire from acting stemmed from various factors, including a scarcity of substantial roles, her brother’s illness, and the aftermath of a nearby earthquake.

The *Forest Hills* trailer also features the rest of the cast surrounding Duvall, composed of horror genre veterans. This may have motivated Goldberg to approach *The Shining* star, encouraging her return to acting. Her co-stars include Dee Wallace from *The Howling* and *Cujo*, Felissa Rose from *Sleepaway Camp*, Edward Furlong from *Brainscan* and *Pet Sematary Two*, Stacey Nelkin from *Halloween III: Season of the Witch*, and Marianne Hagan from *Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers*.

Our Perspective on The Forest Hills Trailer

Shelley Duvall’s Film Embraces Gore

While *The Forest Hills* trailer reveals some low-budget elements, such as a limited cast and settings, it also showcases impressive gore effects that could position the film as a fitting release ahead of the Halloween season. Its combination of a bloodthirsty narrative, a seasoned cast, and the draw of Shelley Duvall’s final performance after years away from the screen may render the film an intriguing addition to the horror genre.

Source: *The Forest Hills – A Scott Goldberg Film*

The Forest Hills

  • Drama
  • Horror
  • Thriller

Director
Scott Goldberg
Release Date
October 4, 2024
Writers
Scott Goldberg
Cast
Shelley Duvall, Edward Furlong, Dee Wallace, Felissa Rose, Stacey Nelkin, Marianne Hagan, Michael Krysiewicz, Taylor Shade
Character(s)
MAMA, Billy, Angela, Dr. Gonzales, Debbie, Jordana, Chain Victim, Ritual Voice
Runtime
82 Minutes
Main Genre
Horror
Kai Nakamura
Kai Nakamura

Kai Nakamura, a striking 30-year-old journalist with a distinctive head of white hair, is a captivating presence in the world of movie journalism. Known for his eloquent prose and deep understanding of film, Kai has established himself as a trusted voice among movie enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.

Hailing from the vibrant city of San Francisco, Kai's passion for cinema was nurtured by his multicultural upbringing and frequent visits to the diverse array of film festivals held in the city. He pursued his love for storytelling at the University of California, Berkeley, where he graduated with a degree in Media Studies, sharpening his analytical skills and fostering a critical eye.

Kai’s work is revered for its thoughtful exploration of film as both art and cultural commentary. His blog, "Celluloid Reflections," offers readers an immersive experience, featuring everything from in-depth reviews of the latest releases to insightful essays on film history and its societal impacts. His unique perspective bridges the gap between mainstream and arthouse cinema, attracting a wide audience.

Outside of his writing, Kai is deeply connected to his cultural roots, frequently engaging in community projects that highlight Asian cinema and promote cross-cultural dialogue. An avid photographer, he captures the world through his lens, often drawing inspiration from the visual storytelling of the movies he loves.

Kai's personal life is as colorful as his professional one. He is an enthusiastic cook, often experimenting with fusion cuisines that reflect his heritage, and he enjoys hosting dinner parties where lively discussions about film abound. An advocate for mental health awareness, he volunteers with organizations dedicated to supporting creatives in overcoming industry pressures.

With his distinctive style and profound insight into the cinematic world, Kai Nakamura continues to enrich the film journalism landscape, inspiring others to see movies not just as entertainment, but as a lens into the human experience.

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