Cheap Thrills

Craig, a newly fired dad facing eviction, meets Violet and Colin, a polished, affluent couple who offer a fast track out of debt. The price is a sequence of dares that grow bolder and riskier as the night wears on. What begins as a mere loan spirals into a high-stakes game that tests Craig's judgment, his commitment to his family, and his willingness to bend his own rules under pressure. The exchange is bleakly funny at times, but the danger sharpens quickly, turning ordinary decisions into life changing bets. As the night unfolds, the audience watches a man twist and mutiny against his own better nature, all in pursuit of security. The tension stays tight, never letting the audience relax.

Directed by E L Katz with scripts by David Chirchirillo and Trent Haaga, channels Roald Dahl dark humor. Stars Pat Healy as Craig, Ethan Embry as Vince, Sara Paxton as Violet, David Koechner as Colin, and Amanda Fuller as Audrey.

Box office: The film had a limited release and earned only modest sums, with figures not widely reported worldwide. It played primarily at festivals and in select theaters, gaining a small but devoted following on home video and streaming platforms.

Over time Cheap Thrills built a small but loyal following among horror fans for its lean setup, escalating dares and caustic social bite. The film's premise sparked conversations about money, morality, and how far people will go when survival is on the line. Its influence lingers in late night screenings.

Critics praised the film for brisk pacing and the way it squeezes uncomfortable laughs from grim situations. The story centers on desperation, wealth inequality, and moral compromise, propelled by strong turns from Pat Healy, Ethan Embry, Sara Paxton and David Koechner. The tonal shifts fuel debate among audiences and critics.