COLD STORAGE (2026) – Lackluster Script and Uninspired Effects

If you’re considering watching Cold Storage for its impressive cast, think twice. Despite boasting names like Liam Neeson—relegated here to a supporting role—and Joe Keery, beloved for his turn as Steve Harrington in Stranger Things, this horror comedy sci-fi film quickly unravels into a forgettable mess. It even has Lesley Manville who is usually shines in anything she appears in on TV series. Alas her addition here only raises expectations that the film’s story and script fail to meet. While the cast is undeniably strong, their talents are squandered on a narrative that is neither genuinely funny nor remotely frightening.

The movie opens with some promise: a highly contagious and deadly virus, originating from the wreckage of a fallen space vessel, is discovered and initially contained. Years later, the virus escapes, setting off chaos among the people and environment it threatens. This intriguing premise, however, is quickly let down by uninspired execution.

Cold Storage attempts to channel a campy B-movie vibe, but the characters lack the wit or depth to hold the viewer’s attention, even during its relatively brief runtime of just over ninety minutes. Liam Neeson’s role feels underdeveloped—he’s present solely to lend the project some star power, rather than to contribute meaningfully to the plot. Joe Keery, known for his dynamic performance as Steve Harrington, is given a role that is little more than a watered-down version of his Stranger Things character. This lack of originality highlights the filmmakers’ reliance on familiar tropes instead of crafting something new. Keery, in particular, deserves better than what this film offers.

To make matters worse, the CGI effects are distractingly cheap—perhaps an intentional nod to B-movie aesthetics, but likely also a result of budget limitations. While low-budget effects can be charming in a well-made film, here they only draw attention to the movie’s overall mediocrity. In the end, Cold Storage fails to deliver either laughs or scares, and I cannot recommend it—even to fans of the horror comedy genre, many of whom are no strangers to disappointing entries. This film feels like another quick cash grab, offering little of substance to its audience.