Lullaby (2022)

John R. Leonetti’s *Lullaby (2022)* stands as a testament to his continued mastery of the supernatural horror genre, making it a natural inclusion on any list of his best works. The film expertly crafts a chilling narrative around a young mother who unwittingly summons an ancient, malevolent entity by singing a mysterious lullaby, plunging her family into a terrifying ordeal. Leonetti’s signature style—characterized by a meticulous build-up of unsettling atmosphere, punctuated by well-timed and genuinely effective jump scares—is on full display here, demonstrating his acute understanding of how to exploit primal fears. His background as a cinematographer shines through, creating a visually dark and claustrophobic world that perfectly complements the escalating dread. Furthermore, *Lullaby* solidifies Leonetti's reputation for crafting horror tales that delve into the vulnerabilities of the family unit, particularly mothers grappling with immense supernatural threats—a thematic thread evident throughout much of his acclaimed filmography, from *Annabelle* to *Wish Upon*. The film's strength lies not just in its frights, but in its exploration of the desperate lengths a parent will go to protect their child, even when faced with an insidious, ancient evil. By blending emotional stakes with relentless supernatural terror and showcasing his directorial flair for tension and visual dread, *Lullaby* firmly cements its place as a quintessential and strong entry in John R. Leonetti’s impressive body of work, illustrating why he remains a significant voice in contemporary horror.