Carly May Borgstrom's feature debut Spirit in the Blood takes place in the remote, deeply religious Canadian community of St. Belvedere. Fifteen-year-old Emerson Grimm, played by Summer H. Howell, moves there with her family and quickly befriends the confident Delilah Soleil, played by Sarah-Maxine Racicot.
Their exploration of the nearby woods changes after a young girl is found dead. The authorities suspect an animal attack; Emerson believes something supernatural is responsible. She and her friends begin a ritual intended to confront the supposed monster.
Borgstrom connects coming-of-age drama with horror while keeping young women's perspectives central. A persistent, understated threat shapes the atmosphere. Zamarin Wahdat's camera captures both the openness and the oppressive quality of the forest.
Howell combines vulnerability with determination, while Racicot gives Delilah rebellious energy. Michael Wittenborn as Pastor Carl and Greg Bryk as Emerson's father provide convincing support. The adolescent relationships feel authentic enough to carry the story's fears.
The film uses familiar motifs that recall Stand by Me and Stranger Things, but its female perspective and fairy-tale elements offer a fresh interpretation. Friendship, growing up and confronting internal and external demons are woven together effectively.
There are stretches that run long, and not every narrative thread is fully developed. Even so, the dense atmosphere and convincing teenage dynamics sustain most of the mixture of drama and horror. Spirit in the Blood is an accomplished debut with strong performances and an assured sense of mood. It leaves me interested in what Borgstrom does next.