Review published 9th March 2025

Watch the official trailer.

A Romantic Getaway Complicated by Doubt and a Life Changing Proposal

Chase (Seann William Scott) has made some exciting arrangements for his partner, Macy (Fabianne Therese), on their romantic getaway. Chase is planning to propose to Macy while away, and it is quite evident that she suspects he is preparing to ask the big question. She confides in a close friend that she is not sure she is ready to become a wife and a stepmother to Chase’s child.

A Romantic Escape Turns Into a Terrifying Fight for Survival Against a Deranged Killer

Nevertheless, the pair journey away for some time alone together. Chase is passionate about taking Macy to a peaceful spot in the woods where he has many fond memories, hoping their trip will become the start of new memories they can share. However, the sweet moment and proposal opportunity are soon interrupted when the pair are followed and stalked by a figure that is quite monstrous. Deeply deranged and dressed like a large Dolly (Max the Impaler), complete with a porcelain headpiece, a killer is pursuing them in the hopes of raising them like a newborn child. Now Chase and Macy must struggle to survive the pursuit of this disturbing figure.

Rod Blackhurst Delivers a Modern Horror with Classic Grindhouse Flair

Dolly was directed by Rod Blackhurst, whose past works include Amanda Knox (2016), Here Alone (2016), Night Swim (2014), Blood for Dust (2023), and more. As you might expect, Dolly is, in fact, a horror film with a solid touch of grindhouse. Although the film is set in what feels like the present day, it is clearly designed to replicate the look and feel of low-budget classic exploitation films from the 70s, which I quite enjoyed. This aesthetic also adds a nice touch to the experience of watching it in a large cinema with a crowd.

Dolly Emerges as a Silent, Terrifying, and Visually Striking New Horror Villain

When it comes to praise points, I personally loved the introduction of a new kind of villain, Dolly. I liked her costume and the design of her headpiece, which looks convincing and appears to be made of porcelain, just like a real creepy doll. Like Terrifier’s Art the Clown, Dolly does not speak, and I enjoyed the movement and physicality she brings in delivering clear expressions throughout the film. There are also moments in which viewers can hear breathing and childlike noises coming from the mask. Although Dolly herself is quite a sight for horror buffs, her reasoning for being present and her backstory are, sadly, vague.

A Simple Yet Predictable Horror That Relies on Tension and Dolly’s Brutal Presence

The plot here is neat and simple, and honestly, there is not much to it: a pair go away together and find trouble in the woods. What keeps the film exciting is wondering if our leading characters will, in fact, survive the nightmare they find themselves in, and Dolly’s selections when it comes to torture and punishment. I found most of the film obvious and predictable in its outcomes. To top it off, some moments dragged on, even though the film has a short runtime to begin with.

Dolly Delivers Gritty Grindhouse Horror with a Disturbing New Icon, Despite Predictable Moments

Overall, Dolly is a horror film that successfully introduces a sickening and deeply disturbing new horror icon to the screen. The look, mannerisms, and costuming of Dolly are fantastic, and gritty grindhouse vibes run throughout the film, adding to its creepy atmosphere and growing sense of terror. The plot itself is extremely simple and often predictable. The same can be said about the film’s central threat, and I could not help but wish for more backstory surrounding this mysterious figure. Pacing is also somewhat hit-and-miss. Some scenes feel energetic and tense, while others drag slightly due to their predictability, with viewers often waiting for events they already suspect will happen. Character’s choices can also be baffling at times, even though the performances are quite solid across the board. Despite these issues, I honestly had a great brainless time with this one. There are plenty of refreshing touches throughout, and I do think it delivers a rewarding horror experience. One thing is certain: this is one Dolly you do not want to mess with.

Dolly (2025) will be available on DVD & Digital in Australian Cinemas from March 12th, thanks to Monster Pictures

About the Reviewer

Peter Walkden

Film writer and curator with a deep passion for cinema, genre filmmaking, and physical media. Exploring new releases, cult favourites, and overlooked films, with a strong focus on atmosphere, storytelling, and the theatrical experience.

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