Sting: A Spider’s Web of Confusion

The latest creature feature to hit the big screen, Sting, is a film that struggles to find its footing. Written and directed by Kiah Roache-Turner, the movie tells the story of 12-year-old Charlotte, who raises a talented spider in secret, only to see it transform into a giant, flesh-eating monster.

A spider’s web of deceit

The problem with Sting lies in its tone. It’s unsure whether to lean into the absurdity of the situation and turn everything into a joke or focus on the domestic drama at the center. The result is a film that feels disjointed and unsure of what it wants to be.

“The spider’s ability to mimic other wildlife sounds is both fascinating and terrifying.”

The cast of characters is equally confusing. There’s Charlotte, who’s struggling to come to terms with her stepfather’s presence in her life, and her pet spider, which becomes a symbol of her own feelings of abandonment. Then there’s the goofy exterminator, Frank, who adds a much-needed dose of humor to the film. But even he can’t save the movie from its overall dullness.

A spider’s transformation

The film’s practical effects and makeup are respectable, particularly in the death scenes. However, they’re not enough to save Sting from its overall lack of excitement. Even the suspenseful sequence towards the end feels like too little, too late.

In the end, Sting is a film that fails to leave a lasting impression. It’s a shame, because with a bit more focus and direction, it could have been something truly special.

A spider’s web of confusion