Horror Movie Review: CarousHELL 4 (2026)

Just when we thought it was safe to go into the woods. Duke’s back, and he just wants to spend some quality time with his son, Robbie. Except the youngster finds the Nekkomeownicon, and hoping to speak to his dead mother, reads from it. Unfortunately for Robbie something else was listening, and now Duke is going to have to deal with all manner of evil beings, many of whom he sent to hell himself.

Think Evil Dead, but with unicorns and undead Nazis.

Directed by the brilliant Steve Rudzinski, CarousHELL 4 is the ultimate horror comedy ride for all those who have been side by side with Duke since the first film. He has come so far, and now, having finally embraced his fatherly responsibilities, he has no choice but to face his past. He must answer for what he has done, because remember, he wasn’t always a good guy.

It’s an excellent story with a strong subplot that sees Robbie unable to handle change, so unknowingly he has used his magical powers to ensure he doesn’t grow up. This way his and Duke’s dynamic stays the same. How adorable is that!? It continues to amaze me that Steve Rudzinski has made these characters so loveable, especially when you remember Duke’s origins.

I do, I’ve reviewed every entry (CarousHELL, CarousHELL 2, CarousHELL 3) so far, but I’m not alone.

In his attempt to speak to his dead mother, Robbie reads from the Nekkomeownicon and it all goes a bit wrong. This is where things go a bit ‘Evil Dead’ and it is really good fun. Whereas I thought CarousHELL 3 wrapped things up nicely, CarousHELL 4 shows exactly why there’s tons more life in this series yet.

Think about how many people, both good and bad, have been killed by Duke. Don’t you think revenge would something many would want? This is where CarousHELL 4’s horror comes into things, albeit with a liberal amount of comedy too. Many of Duke’s past victims are back as demonic creatures (Deadites for want of a better term), including the major players from each previous entry, and some extra special guests. Duke might have moved on, but to save his son, he’s going to have kill them all over again.

CarousHELL 4 is the best one yet. I’ve not always been the most positive about the series, but slowly, I’ve warmed to Duke and his antics, to the point that I was actually looking forward to this entry. Steve Rudzinski is a talent, a modern creator who understands that comedy and horror need heart and soul, and with enough effort, budgetary drawbacks can be completely ignored. Even then, this entry has some of the best visuals, best gore, and best lighting.

It’s as ridiculous as always, but everyone involved (including an extensive cast) throws their all into making it feel special. I don’t know if this is it for Duke, but if it is, it’s one hell of a way to bow out.