You could be forgiven for assuming that Director Warren Skeels (Thespians 2011, Siesta Key series) is a big fan of John Carpenter. Why? Because his sophomore feature, The Man in the White Van, feels like an homage to Carpenter’s 1978 film Halloween. Indeed, both films are set in the 1970s during the Halloween holiday, and both follow a teenage girl who is stalked by a violent man who has murder on his mind.
In theaters on December 13, 2024 through Relativity Media, The Man in the White Van follows headstrong teenager Annie (Madison Wolfe: The Conjuring 2 2016, Malignant 2021), known by her family for her tall tales and fractious relationship with her older sister Margaret (Brec Bassinger: Status Update 2018, 47 Meters Down: Uncaged 2019). So when Annie tries to tell her mother (Ali Larter: Final Destination 2000, Legally Blonde 2001) and father (Sean Astin: The Goonies 1985, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring 2001) that a shadowy figure in a beat up old white van has been following her and turning up wherever she is – they dismiss her claims as lies and a way of diverting attention away from Margaret. However, Annie is telling the truth, and the man won’t stop until he gets what he wants – Annie dead.
The film opens with the text stating that it is based on true events. Though the exact true events are not implicitly stated, it is suspected that it is based on serial killer Billy Mansfield. This true-life link only elevates the horror and makes the film feel even more chilling.
The Man in the White Van also spends a good amount of time concentrating on Annie’s more normal teenage problems, such as her familial relationships and her first crush on a boy. Whilst this might frustrate the hardcore Horror aficionados, this actually gives the film a good balance, making it feel like a coming of age. In that way, this would make a good gateway horror.
That being said, The Man in the White Van still leans toward Horror, particularly in that it builds tension really well. There will definitely be some audiences who feel like hiding behind a cushion at points! The performances also elevate the film. It is great to see Larter and Astin in strict parental roles, and Bassinger is great as spoilt and self-involved older sister Margaret. However, it is Wolfe that really shines through as a really engaging and likable screen presence.
Overall, this is a great watch for those looking for a John Carpenter-esque-inspired piece that is not quite as violent as Halloween and leans more into the coming-of-age of its lead character. The Man in the White Van engages throughout and shows great promise for Wolfe as a future scream queen! That is why Cryptic Rock gives it 4 out of 5 stars.
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