'Hy3na' Review: Hypnotic, Violent, a Neon-Soaked Fever Dream - FrightFest 2026
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By Shauna Bushe - August 31, 2026
There is a fine line between a thriller that keeps you guessing and one that actively revels in pulling the rug out from under you. Debut feature Hy3na, fresh off its premiere at Fright Fest, doesn’t just fracture its timeline into a dizzying, non-linear maze, it sets the whole narrative on fire with a haze of crimson and psychological disorientation.
What is Hy3na about?
Captivated by the alluring Rachel, Nicole is pulled headfirst into a dark adult underworld where raw chemistry makes the line between desire and danger impossibly thin. The stakes turn lethal when a serial killer begins hunting patrons of Nicole’s online network. As two lead detectives’ steps in to investigate, the interrogation exposes a web of suspicion where identity fractures, and the roles of protector and predator blur entirely.
Visually, the production spares no expense. The practical physical effects and intense action sequences are a clear highlight. Fantastically executed, looking visually sharp, and unapologetically brutal. Bathed in a seductive palette of neon purples, deep pinks, and the vivid, stark redness of blood, its aesthetically pleasing atmosphere seamlessly complements the dark allure of the premise. Every shock sequence is crafted with striking precision, contrasting dramatically against the film's slick aesthetic.
Where Hy3na grows challenging is in its structural choices. The story unfolds through a non-linear framework, constantly shifting its timeline in a way that fuels a disorienting, fever-dream vibe. While this fragmented storytelling puts you directly inside Nicole’s head, it can occasionally feel chaotic, leaving key plot points open to interpretation. That ambiguity extends all the way to the closing sequence, rather than offering a neat conclusion or tying every thread together. Instead, choosing to end on a deliberately cryptic note, leaving the viewer with far more questions than definitive answers.
Hy3na isn't built for audiences seeking a straightforward narrative or quick answers. Director Matthew Ninaber crafts an ambitious, visually intoxicating entry. Driven by a palpable tension, convincing effects and an enigmatic atmosphere. The film thrives on ambiguity, creating a captivating experience. Though its narrative puzzle may disorientate, the projects visual style and intense energy leaves a lasting impression.
'Hy3na' had its world premiere at FrightFest London 2026.
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