Big Bully (1996)

"Big Bully" (1996) centers on a frustrated writer, David Leary, who finds his carefully constructed life upended when he's forced to move back to his childhood hometown. There, he encounters Rosco "Bully" Fulton, his childhood nemesis, a man whose life David unknowingly contributed to ruining years ago. Rosco, now a grown man and still harboring grudges, quickly makes it clear that he intends to replay their painful past, subjecting David to a campaign of increasingly elaborate and humiliating torment, seeking to relive their childhood conflict. While perhaps not as celebrated as some of Steve Miner's more iconic horror and slasher flicks, "Big Bully" showcases Miner's versatility as a director. He successfully navigates the tricky territory of dark comedy and suspense, building tension through Rosco's increasingly unsettling actions and extracting believable performances from his cast. The film's exploration of unresolved childhood trauma and the lingering impact of bullying, with a darkly comedic undertone, solidifies its place as a worthwhile entry on a "Best Steve Miner Movies" list, highlighting his ability to deliver compelling narratives across diverse genres.