Eli Roth’s latest film, *Ice Cream Man*, offers a distinctive blend of horror rooted in a familiar American icon. Released this week in theaters, the movie transforms the archetype of the neighborhood ice cream vendor into a source of terror, using the seemingly innocent treats to unleash chaos on a suburban community.
Set in the fictional town of Bayleen Bay shortly before summer break, the story centers on a sinister ice cream man, portrayed by Ari Millen, who hands out frozen desserts with disturbing effects. Children who consume the ice cream quickly become violent and zombie-like, turning on their families in brutal ways. The film’s narrative follows 12-year-old Jared (Charlie Zeltzer), who, unlike many of his peers, avoids the cursed treats due to his lactose intolerance. Teaming up with fellow unaffected students Mia (Kiori Mirza Waldman) and Tommy (Shiloh O’Reilly), Jared seeks to escape the worsening horror that spreads through their school.
Jared’s older sister Lizzie (Sarah Abbott) plays a protective role, cautioning against the ice cream and later joining forces with her ex-boyfriend Chris (Dylan Hawco) as they attempt to confront the evil behind the outbreak. Their efforts are guided by a priest (Benjamin Byron Davis) connected to the ice cream man’s dark past, whose cryptic instructions may hold the key to stopping the carnage.
The concept reportedly stems from a nightmare Roth experienced over two decades ago, characterized by its visceral and unsettling imagery. The film’s tone echoes Roth’s earlier work, particularly his 2002 debut *Cabin Fever*, blending dark humor with graphic horror. Known for films like *Hostel* (2005) and *Thanksgiving* (2023), Roth also appears onscreen in this project, taking on the role of Jared and Lizzie’s father.
*Ice Cream Man* runs under 90 minutes and is unrated, featuring extensive gore and some particularly shocking scenes that push the boundaries of conventional horror. While critics may find the storytelling and character development lacking depth, the film is clearly aimed at viewers who appreciate intense and creatively gruesome effects.
The film explores themes of suburban innocence corrupted and plays on the unsettling idea of trusted symbols turning malevolent. For audiences seeking a vividly grotesque horror experience with a bizarre twist on a quintessentially American figure, *Ice Cream Man* delivers a macabre yet oddly lighthearted offering.