"Bambi: The Reckoning" is a jarring and unsettling horror film that takes the beloved character of Bambi and turns him into a force of nature driven by rage and a thirst for revenge. The movie's premise, which sees a mother and son being hunted by a mutated deer after a car wreck, is undeniably intriguing and sets the stage for a tense and suspenseful ride. However, the execution of this idea is where the film falters, often relying on cheap jump scares and predictable plot twists to propel the narrative forward.

The film's strongest aspect is its ability to tap into the emotional resonance of the original Bambi story, using the character's tragic backstory to inform his actions and motivations. The special effects used to bring the mutated deer to life are also impressive, making for some truly terrifying moments as the creature wreaks havoc on its human prey. The cinematography is equally effective, using the eerie and isolated surroundings to create a sense of unease and vulnerability. Despite these positives, the film's characters are woefully underdeveloped, with the mother and son being little more than archetypes with no discernible depth or complexity.

The film's themes of grief, trauma, and the consequences of playing with nature are timely and thought-provoking, but they are often overshadowed by the film's more exploitative elements. The runtime of 80 minutes is also surprisingly brief, leaving some plot threads feeling rushed or unresolved. Overall, "Bambi: The Reckoning" is a flawed but fascinating horror film that will appeal to fans of the genre looking for something new and different. While it may not be a complete success, it is a bold and ambitious effort that is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers. With some tighter plotting and more developed characters, this could have been a truly unforgettable film, but as it stands, it is still a worthwhile watch for those looking to experience something unique and unsettling.