Indie Horror Hit 'Marshmallow' on AMC+ Draws 'Donnie Darko' Comparisons

For fans of the genre, the thrill of stumbling upon a fresh, under-the-radar horror film never gets old. While big studio releases often grab the spotlight, independent movies can deliver some of the most memorable scares. One such film, Marshmallow, has quietly climbed the ranks on AMC+, now sitting as the platform’s fourth most-watched title. This indie standout takes a classic setup and injects it with a creative twist, earning praise from critics who call it “refreshing.”

Set against the backdrop of a remote summer camp, Marshmallow weaves together elements of horror and science fiction. The story centers on a young boy and his friends, who find themselves hunted by a shadowy figure known only as the Doctor. While the premise might sound familiar, the film’s unexpected turn is what sets it apart from the usual campfire tales.

Summer Camp Terror with a Sci-Fi Edge

The official synopsis sets the stage:

"When timid 12-year-old Morgan arrives at a secluded camp, a spooky campfire story about a sinister 'doctor' begins to unfold with terrifying accuracy. As the legend comes to life and a mysterious figure stalks the woods, Morgan and his new friends must fight to survive the night and uncover the terrifying truth hidden beneath the camp's idyllic surface — a revelation that challenges everything they thought they knew about fear, identity, and the real nature of their existence."

Directed by Daniel DelPurgatorio and written by Andy Greskoviak, the film features a cast that includes Kue Lawrence, Kai Cech, Giorgia Whigham, Max Malas, Maxwell Whittington-Cooper, Pierson Fodé, Winston Vengapally, Samantha Neyland Trumbo, Alysia Reiner, Corbin Bernsen, and Paul Soter. After premiering at Panic Fest in Kansas City last March, Marshmallow had a limited theatrical run before landing on streaming. Since then, it’s been met with strong reviews from both audiences and critics.

Critical Acclaim and Cult Comparisons

With an 83% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Marshmallow has been described as everything from “cerebral” to “packed with bloody scares.” Avi Offer of NYC Movie Guru drew a bold parallel, stating:

"Refreshingly unpredictable, exhilarating, provocative and genuinely heartfelt. It's kindred spirits with another equally smart, surprising and moving sci-fi movie, Donnie Darko."

Drawing a line to a cult favorite like Donnie Darko is no small feat, but the film’s blend of science fiction and horror seems to justify the comparison. Matt Donato from Daily Dead called it “a sneakily thought-provoking experience that's so much more than what we assume it to be.”

Audience Response and Streaming Success

Viewers have also responded positively, giving Marshmallow a 78% score on the Rotten Tomatoes Popcornmeter. One reviewer wrote,

"It is not at all what you think it will be,"

while another added,

"Marshmallow is not your average summer camp slasher and a crucial reminder that the kids are definitely not alright."

For those searching for a new horror experience this weekend, Marshmallow is now available to stream exclusively on AMC+.