When Evil Lurks is a 2023 supernatural horror film written and directed by Demián Rugna.
This international co-production between Argentina and the United States premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 16, 2023, before being released theatrically by IFC Films on October 6, 2023, and later debuting on Shudder on October 27, 2023.
The film follows two brothers, Pedro and Jaime, who discover a man's eviscerated body in the woods. Their investigation leads them to an elderly woman and her sons hiding in a nearby shack. One of the sons, Uriel, is revealed to be a "Rotten," a being possessed by an unborn demon. The plot thickens as the brothers attempt to rid themselves of Uriel, only to inadvertently unleash chaos upon their community.
With a runtime of 99 minutes, When Evil Lurks has garnered attention for its intense atmosphere and thought-provoking themes. The film explores societal issues through its horror narrative, reflecting on themes of neglect and the consequences of corporate apathy. It has received positive reviews from critics, winning several awards at various film festivals, including Best Feature Film at the Sitges Film Festival.
The film's unique premise and blend of horror with social commentary have made it a notable entry in contemporary horror cinema, appealing to fans looking for both scares and substance.