Psychologists report that there are 5 forms of childhood trauma: neglect, verbal abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse and not reporting harm. It’s heartbreaking enough to imagine any child encountering any of these mistreatments, let alone multiple. Traumatika brings these distressful elements to the forefront through harmful family dynamics and pieces of supernatural components that will have you reeling. And completely terrified.  

Egypt, 1910…a disoriented man wanders the desert with torment on his face and sadness in his heart. He is abruptly paralyzed by horrific recollections regarding his young son, splattered blood and this relic in his hands which is then buried in the sand before plunging a knife into his torso. Oooh, what is this about? Give me more!  

Without a moment’s breath taken, it’s now 2003, Pasadena CA and a panicked boy dials 911 to report his “monster mommy” who is hunting him in a decrepit old house. Immediately dark, fearful and frenzied, this mommy appears possessed and twisted, reminiscent of the basement goblin from Evil Dead. Truly chilling and it doesn’t let up. Let’s goooo!  

A year earlier, we learn the birth of pure evilness derived from the previously hidden artifact and where it resides now: in the hands of alcoholic “family” man John who is warned of its power. As he is specifically alerted to leave this antique object alone, John is unwrapping it, holding it and opening it. Anticipating a genie in a bottle is quite contrary to the now unleashed malevolence in a matter of minutes. The atrocities that follow are uncomfortable and maliciously cruel, in particular – involving his older daughter, Abigail.  

We watch her demonized dad sexually and physically abuse her through both real acts and those now manifested in her newly warped brain being taken over by this unbridled entity. The change is instantaneous as her now blistered face smirks from dominion over her entire soul. Their new master is a devilish fiend ready to pounce for his ultimate craving…a child. A chosen one for the darkness. The need he requires to continue this foul legacy, uses John and Abigal as his sacrificial vessels - the perfect construct for a hellion’s gratification.  

Traumatika is shockingly grotesque and so full of fear that I recommend watching with a blanket for security, especially when Abigal reaches for that impending wire hanger after viewing a positive pregnancy test. And if that doesn’t make you cringe in your chair, I can’t imagine what would.