Deadly Encounters in the Suburbs
In L.A., social media influencer Kat (Katherine McNamara) is walking home with her tiny puppy, Gigi, after an evening of partying. She pauses to take several selfies, but when it begins to rain, a damper is cast on her night. The situation worsens when Kat notices a strange coyote in the background of one of her photos. Sadly, Kat’s night ends in bloodshed for both her and Gigi as it turns out there aren’t just one, but multiple coyotes. After her death, we learn that numerous coyote sightings have been occurring for some time now across everyday suburbs, even where you least expect them.
Celebrity, Infestation, and an Unwelcome Suggestion
We then meet Scott Stewart (Justin Long), a celebrity frustrated by the discovery that his luxury home is infested with rats. Thankfully, a local pest controller, Devon (Keir O’Donnell), assures him that with some poison and spray, the issue can be easily resolved. However, Devon makes a disheartening suggestion: Scott should remove all dog food from the house and, while he’s at it, remove the dog as well. Scott is disgusted by the idea.
Family, Fury, and the Threat of Savage Coyotes
His wife, Liv (Kate Bosworth), and their daughter, Chloe (Mila Harris), also share the lavish home with Scott. The family is not only struggling with rats but also with Scott’s relentless work schedule, as he hopes to write his next masterpiece. Unfortunately, things are about to get much worse. After receiving warnings of an incoming storm, the Stewart family soon discovers something far more terrifying than rats: a pack of bloodthirsty coyotes lurking around their home. Can the Stewarts uncover what’s truly happening, and more importantly, can they survive this killer pack?
Colin Minihan Brings a Real-Life Couple to a Thrilling Horror
The film is directed by Colin Minihan, whose previous works include Grave Encounters (2011) and What Keeps You Alive (2018). Also, a fun fact- Justin Long and Kate Bosworth are married in real life. This marks the first horror project the pair have worked on together. They have also shared the screen in films such as Movie 43 and House of Darkness, which I quite enjoyed. It’s no secret that their on-screen chemistry as husband and wife feels entirely believable for apparent reasons.
Horror, Humor, and Brutal Coyote Attacks
Coyotes is a horror film that also delivers plenty of comedic moments. The horror elements focus heavily on violence, particularly through the various kills committed by the vicious coyotes throughout the film. If you enjoy scenes filled with bones, blood, and flesh, you’ve come to the right place. The film’s humour often comes from the characters’ dialogue, especially from Justin Long’s lead performance, and the absurd situations they find themselves in. One standout example involves one of Scott’s neighbours, who becomes emotionally distraught after losing his beloved cat and seeks pain to cope with his grief. Another ongoing joke is Scott’s constant battle with his gag reflex that is triggered by the sight of blood.
Strong Opening and Finale Overshadowed by CGI and Slow Moments
The film’s opening is fantastic, giving audiences an unmistakable taste of what’s to come, a mix of ridiculousness, fun, and brutal kills. Along with the strong opening, I also found the finale to be exciting and heightened. However, I must admit that several moments in between felt drawn out, as we watch multiple characters wander around, simply trying to stay alive. The kills, when they happen, are impressive and at times even shocking. Unfortunately, the coyotes themselves lack realism due to the film’s heavy use of CGI, which is highly noticeable and often comes across as more comedic than frightening. However, it may still serve as fun nightmare fuel for movie lovers. The performances are solid overall, but nothing particularly remarkable. Justin Long once again portrays a character full of fumbling, nervous energy who makes questionable decisions- ultimately familiar territory for the actor.
A Promising Premise Undermined by CGI and Middling Execution
Coyotes (2025) will be available at Monster Fest 2025, thanks to Umbrella!
FESTIVAL WEBSITE:
monsterfest.com.au/australia
WHEN & WHERE:
Friday 17 October – Sunday 19 October 2025
Event Cinemas Brisbane City (QLD)
Event Cinemas Innaloo (WA)
Friday 24 October – Sunday 26 October 2025
Event Cinemas Burwood (NSW)
Event Cinemas Marion (SA)
TICKETS:
VIP PASS – $180
5 FILM PASS – $90
SESSION TICKETS: $21
Festival Hashtag: #MonsterFestAU
Published: 15th October 2025
Written by: Peter Walkden
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THANK YOU FOR VISITING!
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