Every few years, a film emerges from the independent circuit that manages to shake the foundation of the psychological horror genre. As we kick off 2026, that film is “Unseen.”
Following the recent announcement that BayView Entertainment has secured global distribution rights, the buzz surrounding Steve Merlo’s directorial effort has shifted from a whisper to a roar. Having first caught wind of this project during its gritty Indiegogo crowdfunding phase, critics are finally seeing the fruit of Merlo’s macabre labor—and it is spectacularly unsettling.
A Descent Into the Fractured Mind
At its core, Unseen is a masterclass in atmospheric tension. While the “unstable protagonist” is a trope as old as the genre itself, Merlo treats the subject matter with a visceral, almost claustrophobic intimacy. The film eschews the cheap jump-scares of the 2010s in favor of a slow-burn dread that mirrors the crumbling mental state of its lead.
The performance to watch here is undoubtedly Jaime Hill. Following her work in the experimental Skinamarink, Hill proves she is becoming a powerhouse of modern horror. She brings a grounded, haunting vulnerability to a cast that includes seasoned genre veterans like Brett Wagner.
Early Verdict: A Must-Watch
Already making waves as the first official selection for the Illinois Horror Movie Festival, Unseen is currently the “it” film for those who prefer their horror with a side of psychological trauma. It is a grim, stylish, and ultimately rewarding experience that demands to be watched in a dark room with the door locked.
The Bottom Line: Don’t let the title fool you—this is a film that must be seen. Expect it to hit major digital platforms later this year.
Fandango At Home
https://athome.fandango.com/content/browse/details/Unseen/4857176