Fans of off‑beat cinema in the ArkLaTex region will find a fresh option this weekend with Buddy, a horror‑comedy that riffs on the bright‑colored world of 1990s children’s television. Directed by Casper Kelly and co‑written with Jamie King, the film drops viewers into a fictional show called “It’s Buddy!”—a parody of the sugary optimism once embodied by the purple dinosaur that many parents remember from their own childhoods.
Plot and Tone
The premise is simple yet unsettling: an orange unicorn‑like character named Buddy hosts a seemingly innocent program, but the set quickly becomes a nightmarish arena for both the on‑screen cast and the audience. The movie balances grotesque moments with sharp, witty dialogue, keeping the audience guessing whether the next scene will elicit a gasp or a laugh. While the full storyline is best experienced without spoilers, the film’s relentless energy and clever twists make it a standout entry in the horror‑comedy genre.
Cast and Performances
Leading the ensemble is Cristin Milioti, fresh from an Emmy‑winning turn on HBO Max’s Penguin. She brings a grounded, earnest presence to the chaotic world of Buddy. Keegan‑Michael Key supplies the voice of Buddy, delivering a blend of humor and menace that anchors the film’s tonal swings. Delaney Quinn, as the young actress Freddy, holds her own among seasoned talent, adding a relatable perspective for younger viewers.
Production Design
Production designer Anna Kathleen, known for her work on Resurrection and A Different Man, creates a vivid, garish set that pays homage not only to the iconic “Barney” aesthetic but also to classic children’s shows such as Captain Kangaroo and Pee‑wee’s Playhouse. The visual style amplifies the film’s uncanny atmosphere, making the set itself feel like a character.
Why It Matters for Local Audiences
While Buddy is a national release, its blend of humor, horror, and nostalgic satire offers a unique entertainment option for families and movie‑goers in the Texarkana area seeking alternatives to mainstream blockbusters. The film’s themes of confronting the darker side of seemingly harmless media may resonate with parents who recall the overly sweet programming of their own youth.
Where to See It
The movie is currently playing in select theaters across Texas and neighboring states. Local venues such as the historic Plaza Theatre in downtown Texarkana and the Riverfront Cinema in nearby Dallas are showing the film. Ticket availability varies, so checking with individual theaters is recommended.
Looking Ahead
At the conclusion of Buddy, a brief teaser hints at possible sequels, suggesting the creators intend to expand the unsettling universe they have built. For viewers who enjoy a mix of scares and laughs, the film offers a promising start to what could become a new cult franchise.
Overall, Buddy succeeds as a tightly scripted, visually striking horror‑comedy that delivers both thrills and chuckles. It stands out as a fresh choice for local audiences looking for something different this fall.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
