Writer-director Mico Montes's debut feature, Bare Skin, is a horror portmanteau centred on a group therapy session led by Dr Hedonia (Rachel Alig). The film explores the traumatic stories of several patients, including Lenny (Torrey B Lawrence), Claire (Ariana Livingston), Dev (Ryan Wayne), and October (Gabrielle Salinger). Each character recounts their experiences in a florid, monologue style, weaving tales of fire, torture, and psychological breakdown.
The narrative unfolds through the patients' confessions, with Lenny describing a devastating fire, Claire detailing an encounter with a latex-clad dominatrix, Dev being lured by violin music while hiking, and October suffering a psychotic break after an attack. Supporting actors Christina Kroell and Avery Norris deliver strong performances in their respective segments.
The film employs atmospheric lighting and sharp editing to create well-timed scares, though it relies more on mood than on the actors' performances for effect. The framing story returns to the therapy room in the final minutes, tying the strands together.
