A teenager facing constant harassment finds himself with newfound strength—but is it a gift or something more sinister? Elijah Nelson, a high school student struggling with pica and enduring bullying, lives with his mother (Natasha Henstridge) in a mobile home near Phoenix. They seek help from a rough-around-the-edges healer (Lance Henriksen), and the boy suddenly gains confidence to confront his tormentors and attract romantic attention (from Kayla Carlson). "The Unhealer” (2021) blends comic book horror with a high school setting. The story’s foundation and overall feel are reminiscent of “Christine” (1983), where an outcast finds power through unconventional means and uses it to retaliate against those who mistreat him. However, this film distinguishes itself with its Southwestern backdrop, mystical Native American elements, and a production scale comparable to "Bone Eater" (2007). The movie explores the familiar idea that power can be corrupting, prompting consideration of whether Kelly is better off with or without his newfound abilities. If he’s denied protection by adults and those in positions of authority, is it justifiable for him to seek justice himself? And if so, what limits should he impose on his actions before he becomes as bad as the people who are hurting him? These questions provide some thought-provoking moments. The presence of a healer with questionable ethics brings to mind Steve Gerber’s Foolkiller from Marvel's Man-Thing comic in 1974, though its use here is unique enough that it doesn't feel like a direct copy. As a straight-to-video production, “The Unhealer” has the financial constraints of a typical TV movie and shows it. However, this is somewhat offset by a capable cast and well-written material with dialogue that’s often quick-witted and humorous, even if it's stylized like a comic book (complete with something akin to Kryptonite). It's enjoyable as long as you don’t anticipate a masterpiece. The film has a running time of 1 hour, 34 minutes and was filmed in Apache Junction & Superstition Mountains, located just east of Phoenix & Scottsdale in Arizona. GRADE: B/B-

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