Pilgrim

In the 2019 film Pilgrim, the Barker family embarks on a Thanksgiving celebration that spirals into a nightmarish exploration of gratitude and privilege. Eager to instill a sense of appreciation in her family, Ms. Anna Barker invites a group of Pilgrim reenactors to their home, intending to create a unique holiday experience. However, the actors, deeply committed to their roles, refuse to break character, leading to a chilling confrontation between the modern-day family and their historical counterparts. As the lines between reality and reenactment blur, the Barkers must confront uncomfortable truths about their own lives and the darker aspects of American history.

At its core, Pilgrim delves into themes of entitlement and the often-unacknowledged complexities of gratitude. The film expertly juxtaposes the festive spirit of Thanksgiving with the unsettling presence of the reenactors, who embody a rigid adherence to their roles that becomes increasingly menacing. As tensions rise, family dynamics shift, revealing buried resentments and hidden insecurities that threaten to tear them apart. With a blend of drama, fantasy, and horror, the film invites viewers to reflect on the true meaning of gratitude and the lengths to which people will go to maintain their sense of privilege. Pilgrim ultimately serves as a haunting reminder that some traditions may come with a price, making it a thought-provoking choice for those who appreciate films that challenge societal norms while delivering a chilling narrative.