Supernatural Horror Unveils in Tranquil Italian Village in "The Holy Boy"

Set in the unassuming Italian village of Remis, Paolo Strippoli's supernatural horror "The Holy Boy" weaves a story deeply rooted in the mundanity of routine life. The small town, complete with its high school, tavern, and low-roofed homes, wears a deceptive mask of contentment and peace, underlined by its motto, "Valley of Smiles." The village functions as a standard premise until the arrival of its newest inhabitant.

Ex-judo champion Sergio Rossetti, played convincingly by Michele Riondino, arrives in this tranquil town with a temporary job of teaching PE at the local school. Sergio's arrival is a rejuvenating event for the sleepy town. However, Rossetti struggles with his recent loss and anxiety, reflecting a spark of humor buried within a wall of self-loathing. One of his students, Matteo, portrayed by newcomer Giulio Feltri, complains about Sergio's unending jests, to which Sergio responds with gratitude to Matteo for reigniting his humor.

It is then revealed that Matteo possesses a peculiar gift of absorbing others' unhappiness simply with a hug, making their painful memories less hurtful without erasing them. Conducted under the supervision of the local priest Don Attilo and funded through donations, Matteo's hug ceremonies follow a strict schedule set by his father, Mauro.

The town of Remis is still recovering from the aftermath of a tragic train derailment 15 years ago, which had claimed numerous lives. Yet, the village holds much darker secrets. Matteo's ability to ease painful memories also uncloaks a troublesome power, posing difficult questions about consent and violation. Matteo's divine characteristic struggles to coexist with his teenage curiosity and sexual awakening, compromizing their implications.

"The Holy Boy" excellently blends elements from popular classics including "Carrie" and "The Omen" while maintaining its standalone appeal. Its spectacular climax is knotted around a melancholic core, reminding us of the need for pain even when it overshadows our lives. Amidst the tumult, Matteo, promising an end to suffering, is regarded as an angel, but the plot reminds us of the potential curse of dreams coming true.