Antlers (2021)

While ostensibly a supernatural horror film, Scott Cooper's *Antlers (2021)* is undeniably a product of his distinct directorial vision, earning its place among his best. Cooper deftly blends creature feature elements with his signature grim realism, transforming the isolated, economically ravaged Oregon town into as much a character as its human inhabitants. The film’s pervasive sense of dread and its unflinching gaze at societal decay, drug abuse, and the lingering scars of trauma are hallmarks of Cooper's work, making it far more than just a horror movie but a profound, albeit unsettling, drama in line with his character-driven narratives like *Out of the Furnace* and *Hostiles*. It further solidifies its standing through Cooper’s meticulous attention to character and atmosphere. The central mystery, revolving around a young boy's horrifying secret, becomes a poignant metaphor for the hidden monsters of addiction and abuse that plague marginalized communities. Cooper’s ability to draw out raw, understated performances from his cast, particularly Keri Russell and Jesse Plemons, elevates the material beyond typical genre fare. Coupled with its haunting visuals and slow-burn narrative that prioritizes psychological terror over cheap thrills, *Antlers* proves itself a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling, perfectly aligning with the dark, character-driven dramas that define Scott Cooper’s most compelling cinema.