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Splinter is a horror movie released in 2008 directed by Toby Wilkins. The story follows a couple, Polly Watt (Jill Wagner) and Seth Belzer (Paulo Costanzo), on a camping trip. While driving through an isolated area, they accidentally hit a small animal and get stranded when their car's fuel tank collapses. They seek shelter in a nearby gas station and convince an escaped convict, Dennis Farell (Shea Whigham), to help them. Not long after they settle in, they realize that they are not alone and are being hunted by a deadly parasitic organism.

The film is set in a rural area and has a minimalist setting, which makes it all the more eerie. The plot revolves around characters trapped within a confined space, desperate to survive. The gas station also serves as a hub for the characters to develop, and as they attempt to work together to escape the perilous situation. With the help of prosthetic and animatronic effects, the parasitic monster takes center stage as the antagonist that terrorizes the characters trapped inside the gas station.

What sets this movie apart is the pacing and tension that the director establishes. The movie is shot in a way that creates a sense of claustrophobia, and as the story progresses, the tension continues to escalate. The humans have to fight to survive with limited tools at their disposal, and the monster is relentless in its pursuit of them. Additionally, the movie also features a gripping score that accentuates the horror elements.

The acting in Splinter is also notable. Shea Whigham, who portrays the escaped convict, delivers a performance that is both intense and nuanced. Jill Wagner, who plays Polly Watt, is convincing as a woman confronting a terrifying situation. Paulo Costanzo, as Seth Belzer, also gives a good performance as a man subjected to mounting fear and uncertainty. The ensemble cast successfully brings the tension and the emotions of the characters to life, making the movie more relatable and engaging.

The storyline of Splinter does not rely solely on jump scares or gore, but instead revolves around suspense and survival. It also explores themes of human error that can lead to unexpected consequences, such as the accidental release of the parasitic organism that infects the characters. This unique theme puts a spin on the traditional "monstrous creature" horror movie trope, and the interactions between characters' emotions provide poignant, character-driven moments.

Overall, Splinter is an excellent horror movie that uses tension and suspense to keep the viewer on the edge of their seat. The performances are solid, and the creature effects add another layer of fear and disgust, and provide an uneasy feeling that lasts throughout the film. The restrained approach to horror makes it accessible to a wider audience, and the themes provide a gateway for meaningful discussions. Splinter is an excellent example of how low-budget horror movies can still deliver a chilling and engaging cinematic experience.

Splinter is a 2008 horror movie. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1 and a MetaScore of 58.