**"Buddy" (2026), a horror-comedy slasher from director Casper Kelly ("Too Many Cooks"), premiered at Sundance in January 2026 and is slated for wide theatrical release on August 28.** Festival reviews have established a Tomatometer in the low-to-mid 80s (currently 82-84% from 31-34 critics), with Metacritic at 64/100 from 11 reviews, reflecting a mixed but generally favorable response to its premise of a deranged orange unicorn turning a 1990s children's show into a nightmare. Critics highlight the film's clever nostalgia subversion, absurd humor, and unsettling tone, though some note it as a missed opportunity or uneven in execution. The strong cast—including Keegan-Michael Key as Buddy, Cristin Milioti, Topher Grace, Michael Shannon, and Patton Oswalt—has helped build industry buzz around the concept's originality in the crowded "dark kids' TV" subgenre. With the wide release just days away, additional mainstream reviews could shift the score, though the current consensus suggests solid but not exceptional critical reception. Traders should monitor post-release updates for any momentum changes tied to opening weekend reception or expanded coverage.