FORBIDDEN FRUITS -- An Unpredictable, Camp Thrill Ride

Review by Chadd Clubine

Forbidden Fruits feels like something sealed in a ’90s time capsule and only just unearthed for modern theaters. That retro quality gives it a distinct charm—one that helps smooth over some of the film’s weaker elements. Despite a large and talented cast, its look and sound can feel dated at times, but it ultimately leans into a tone that works in its favor and suits the story it’s trying to tell.

Led by an all-star cast, each performer feels fully in sync with the tone director and co-writer Meredith Alloway is aiming for. Lili Reinhart delivers one of her most memorable performances to date, navigating a character layered with misdirection that builds toward an unpredictable conclusion. While Victoria Pedretti and Alexandra Shipp bring their usual presence and deliver standout moments, it’s Lola Tung who truly breaks through, turning in a performance that’s likely to earn her wider recognition.
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There’s a lot packed into this film—arguably enough to have been better explored in a longer-form TV series. Still, having this level of talent assembled for a theatrical release feels like a small miracle, especially given how rare projects like this have become. The constantly gliding dolly shots and the stylized set design can, at times, give it the appearance of a student film. On paper, that might seem like a drawback, but it ultimately becomes part of the film’s appeal, lending it a distinct charm that many viewers will likely embrace as camp.

It’s clear how comfortable the cast is under Meredith Alloway’s direction, fully committing to the film’s offbeat tone. It weaves together elements of comedy and mystery, gradually leaning into its genre influences. With Shudder behind its distribution, the film ultimately delivers the kind of bold, unexpected turn the platform is known for. When it gets there, it lands one of the most unpredictable moments in the entire story—one that gives Final Destination a run for its money. In that instant, anything feels possible, and the film is all the better for embracing that unpredictability.

Based on where the film leaves off, it clearly has a sequel in mind. Whether that actually happens is uncertain, given the film’s smaller scale. Any continuation would likely need to take a bold, different approach to justify extending the story. The ending itself lands on a strong note, but the post-credits scene lingers a bit too long, undercutting some of that impact. That’s where a TV series could really do this story justice. There’s a wealth of untapped potential where it could go from here, with more room to explore its ideas and characters.
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Overall, Forbidden Fruits leans into a bygone era in a way that gives it a distinct, offbeat charm. The core cast delivers across the board, with Lili Reinhart turning in one of her strongest performances to date and Lola Tung further proving herself beyond The Summer I Turned Pretty. Fans of this particular blend of genres may find a new cult favorite here, while horror audiences, in particular, will likely be caught off guard by the film’s many surprises.

Forbidden Fruits in now playing in theaters.

RATING: 3/5