Bloat (2025) — English Horror

In the 2025 horror film *Bloat*, directed by Pablo Absento, a family vacation in Japan takes a sinister turn when their youngest son, Kyle, survives a near-drowning incident in a remote lake. Following the accident, unsettling changes in Kyle's behavior lead his parents, Jack (Ben McKenzie) and Hannah (Bojana Novaković), to suspect a supernatural cause. The film delves into themes of grief, parental anxiety, and Japanese folklore, particularly the legend of the Kappa, a water demon believed to possess children. Presented in a screenlife format, *Bloat* employs various video mediums, such as security camera footage and smartphone recordings, to create an immersive and tense atmosphere. Upon its release, *Bloat* received mixed reviews. Critics praised its innovative use of the screenlife format and its exploration of Japanese mythology but criticized its pacing and narrative coherence. The film holds a 29% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a divided reception. Despite its flaws, *Bloat* offers a unique take on the horror genre, appealing to viewers interested in supernatural tales rooted in cultural folklore.