Marshmallow (2025) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
There’s something oddly comforting about horror set in summer camps—nostalgic yet haunting, familiar yet frightening. Marshmallow (2025), directed by Daniel DelPurgatorio and written by Andy Greskoviak, taps into that eerie comfort, only to turn it inside out by the end. On the surface, it feels like a child-friendly Goosebumps-style slasher. But beneath its spooky campfire tales lies something much more sinister—and surprisingly thought-provoking.
If you’re considering watching Marshmallow online or wondering whether this film is more than just another summer scarefest, this in-depth, spoiler-conscious review is for you.
Plot Summary: Goosebumps Meets Black Mirror
At the heart of Marshmallow is 12-year-old Morgan Kim, a shy and anxious boy still reeling from the loss of a family member. To help him cope, his mother sends him to Camp Almar, a remote summer camp in the woods. As if being the new kid wasn’t enough, Morgan quickly becomes the target of bullies.
However, he finds solace in a small group of outcasts—Dirk, Raj, Sam, and the warm-hearted Pilar. Their chemistry evokes strong The Goonies and Stranger Things energy. The atmosphere is light, even cozy… until camp counselor Rachel shares the legend of “The Doctor,” a shadowy figure said to haunt the nearby woods.
Cue the creeping dread.
What begins as a harmless scary story quickly spirals into a waking nightmare. Shadows start to move on their own. Children disappear. A masked killer wielding medical tools stalks the camp. Is this all in Morgan’s head? Or has the legend come to life?
The Genre Switch: Horror, Sci-Fi, and Something Unexpected
Just when you think Marshmallow is settling into its slasher groove, the film veers sharply into psychological horror and retro sci-fi. Think The Outer Limits with a splash of The Twilight Zone.
The twist—without spoiling specifics—is unsettling, bold, and surprisingly emotional. What if the kids at the camp weren’t what they seemed? What if Camp Almar isn’t just a camp, but something far more artificial and existential? This revelation transforms the narrative into a poignant meditation on grief, memory, and the ethics of emotional technology.
Performances and Direction: A Promising Debut
As Daniel DelPurgatorio’s feature debut, Marshmallow showcases a keen eye for atmosphere and tension. His direction shines in the quieter moments—fog rolling over the lake, the glow of flashlights through trees, or the vulnerability in a child’s face. The child actors, especially the actor portraying Morgan, deliver impressively nuanced performances.
The cinematography leans into that ’80s retro-fantasy aesthetic—grainy, hazy, and warm—but it’s not all nostalgia. There’s a cold, clinical edge that creeps in slowly as the film reveals its true nature.
The score, while a bit overbearing in places, does succeed in reinforcing the emotional and psychological stakes, even if it occasionally undercuts key scenes.
Where to Watch Marshmallow (2025) Online in the U.S.
If you’re ready to unravel this twisted tale yourself, Marshmallow is now available for streaming, rental, and purchase on several platforms:
Streaming & Purchase/Rental Options:
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Apple TV
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Vudu
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Spectrum On Demand
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Plex
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Google Play Movies & TV
Make sure to check for availability based on your region and preferred format (HD, SD, 4K).
What Worked Well
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A Unique Concept: The sci-fi twist adds emotional weight and elevates the film beyond standard horror fare.
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Atmospheric Direction: The film captures the summer camp vibe with both nostalgia and menace.
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Solid Performances: The young cast, particularly Morgan and Pilar, brings authenticity and depth.
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Strong Themes: Underneath the scares lies a deeper message about grief, memory, and identity.
What Could Have Been Better
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Pacing Issues: The film’s first half is slow, which may test the patience of some viewers.
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Exposition Dump: The twist is explained in a somewhat clunky info-dump, which dulls its impact.
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Tone Shift Risks: The abrupt genre shift in the second half won’t work for everyone—it’s bold, but jarring.
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Not Truly Scary: Despite its horror label, Marshmallow is more eerie than terrifying.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Summer Camp Horror
Marshmallow is not your typical camp slasher. It’s a layered, atmospheric tale that hides an emotional gut punch under its creepy exterior. While not flawless, it takes creative risks that pay off in surprising ways. If you go in expecting jump scares and simple thrills, you might be disappointed. But if you’re open to a slower burn with a unique twist, Marshmallow might just haunt your thoughts long after the credits roll.
Is It Worth Watching?
Absolutely—if you’re a fan of genre-blending horror with heart.
This isn’t Friday the 13th. It’s Goosebumps meets Ex Machina, and while the execution may not be perfect, the ambition is admirable. It’s a film you can think about and discuss—and in the horror genre, that’s a win.
