While Thanksgiving (2023) excels as a slasher film, its cast plays a vital role in elevating it beyond your standard horror movie. What sets the cast of Thanksgiving apart is their backgrounds—many come from various genres and mediums, bringing fresh perspectives to the film.
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From actors with experience in dramatic TV shows to social media influencers turned stars, the eclectic mix of talent creates a unique synergy.
Nell Verlaque’s portrayal of Jessica Wright has roots in her previous work in dramatic roles. Before this, she appeared in shows like Big Shots and movies like The Marijuana Conspiracy—both projects that required her to convey nuanced, emotional depth. Horror, however, is an entirely different beast.
Likewise, Tomaso Sanelli, who plays Jessica’s friend Evan, brought with him a diverse portfolio from shows like Titans and Detention Adventure. Sanelli’s experience in superhero dramas and youth-oriented TV prepared him to balance moments of humor and action—elements that work well in horror, especially in scenes where comic relief is essential for maintaining pacing.
Gabriel Davenport, known for his work in Holly Hobbie and V Wars, took a similar approach in crafting his character Scuba. Horror-comedy is a difficult balance to strike; overplay the jokes, and you lose the horror, but downplay the comedy, and the film risks becoming too dark.
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1. Nell Verlaque as Jessica Wright – The Courageous Protagonist
At the forefront of Thanksgiving is Nell Verlaque, who plays the role of Jessica Wright, the story’s resilient protagonist. Verlaque’s portrayal of Jessica is layered, showcasing a journey from an average teenager to a fighter who must confront her fears head-on. Her character becomes the “final girl” archetype, a staple in slasher films, but Verlaque adds her own spin by infusing Jessica with emotional depth and authenticity.
Nell Verlaque’s Journey to the Big Screen
Verlaque is no stranger to the acting world, with her breakthrough role in the Disney+ series Big Shot, where she played the talented basketball player Louise Gruzinsky.
Her background in theater also shows in her performances, demonstrating her ability to transition effortlessly between different genres. This skill set made her the perfect fit for the complex role of Jessica in Thanksgiving.
Verlaque’s physicality is one of her standout traits in this movie. The character of Jessica demands a lot in terms of action sequences, and Verlaque committed to this role by performing many of her own stunts.
This dedication ensures that Jessica feels like a real person facing real dangers, rather than just another horror film cliché. Verlaque’s performance captivates audiences, drawing them into Jessica’s terrifying yet empowering journey of survival.
Fun Fact: Nell Verlaque is not only talented on screen but also has a passion for dance, which she uses to enhance her physical performances in action-packed scenes.
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2. Tomaso Sanelli as Evan – The Charismatic Best Friend
Playing the role of Evan, Jessica’s best friend, is Tomaso Sanelli, whose portrayal brings a unique mix of humor, sincerity, and bravery to the character.
Evan is more than just comic relief; he is a crucial part of the narrative, often serving as the voice of reason and a pillar of support for the main protagonist, Jessica.
The character of Evan provides a light-hearted counterbalance to the darker, more terrifying elements of Thanksgiving, allowing the audience to connect with the film on multiple emotional levels.
What sets Evan apart from the typical “best friend” trope in horror films is his well-rounded personality and the depth of his relationships with other characters. Unlike many sidekicks who are present only for comedic moments, Evan’s presence is significant to the storyline, contributing to the group dynamic in meaningful ways.
Tomaso Sanelli’s portrayal of Evan adds a layer of relatability and empathy, making his character feel like a genuine friend rather than just a plot device. As the horror intensifies, Evan’s unwavering loyalty to Jessica and his willingness to confront danger head-on make him one of the most endearing characters in the film.
Sanelli’s approach to Evan’s role is characterized by his effortless charm and nuanced understanding of the character’s complexities. He portrays Evan as someone who uses humor not just as a way to entertain, but also as a coping mechanism for the fear and tension that arise in the face of danger.
This duality allows Sanelli to deliver both comedic and dramatic moments with equal skill, cementing his status as a standout performer in the cast.
Sanelli’s Acting Evolution
Tomaso Sanelli’s journey as an actor has been a fascinating one, marked by steady growth and an impressive ability to adapt to diverse roles. He began his acting career at a young age, first appearing in commercials and smaller television roles that helped him gain valuable experience in front of the camera.
His breakout role came with the children’s mystery-adventure series Detention Adventure, where he portrayed a character with a quirky and adventurous spirit.
This role was instrumental in helping Sanelli develop his comedic timing and hone his ability to connect with younger audiences, making him a recognizable face in family-friendly entertainment.
The transition from children’s adventure series to a horror film like Thanksgiving showcases Sanelli’s willingness to take on challenging roles that push him out of his comfort zone.
Sanelli’s experience
His experience on Detention Adventure equipped him with the skills to bring humor and lightness to his character in Thanksgiving, while also demonstrating his capacity to handle intense and dramatic scenes.
This balance of light and dark elements is essential in horror films, as it allows the audience to experience moments of relief amidst the tension, making the frightening scenes even more impactful.
Sanelli’s previous experience in Titans, a darker superhero drama, also contributed to his evolution as an actor. In Titans, he was exposed to a more mature and intense style of storytelling, which undoubtedly prepared him for the challenging role of Evan in Thanksgiving.
This background gave him the confidence to portray a character who is not only the comedic heart of the film but also someone who faces life-threatening situations with courage and resolve.
His performance in Thanksgiving demonstrates his ability to adapt to various genres and showcases the versatility that will undoubtedly propel his career forward.
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Evan’s Role in Thanksgiving and Tomaso’s Chemistry with the Cast
In Thanksgiving, Evan’s character plays an essential role in moving the plot forward, often acting as the glue that holds the group together when the terror intensifies.
His interactions with Jessica, played by Nell Verlaque, are particularly noteworthy, as they display a sense of genuine friendship and camaraderie that feels authentic.
The bond between Evan and Jessica isn’t just about the laughs—they share moments of fear, vulnerability, and even heroism, which makes their dynamic one of the film’s emotional anchors.
Sanelli’s chemistry with Verlaque is palpable on screen, adding a layer of authenticity to their friendship that resonates with the audience.
Their banter feels natural, and the way they rely on each other in moments of crisis makes their relationship one of the most believable aspects of the film.
This dynamic is crucial in a horror movie, where the audience needs to feel invested in the characters to fully experience the fear and tension.
Sanelli’s ability to switch seamlessly between light-hearted moments and the raw, intense fear of being pursued by a killer showcases his range as an actor.
One minute, he’s delivering a witty one-liner to break the tension, and the next, he’s convincingly portraying the terror of facing a life-threatening situation.
This versatility not only makes Evan a fan-favorite character but also highlights Sanelli’s potential to excel in a variety of roles in the future.
Did You Know?
One interesting fact about Tomaso Sanelli is his musical talent—he is an accomplished guitarist who enjoys playing during his downtime on set.
This musical inclination contributes to his relaxed and easy-going demeanor, which undoubtedly helps him connect with his co-stars and build a positive atmosphere on set.
It also gives him an edge in embodying the laid-back, fun-loving personality of Evan, allowing him to bring an extra layer of authenticity to the role.
Sanelli’s passion for music isn’t just a hobby; it’s an integral part of his creative expression, which has likely contributed to his overall performance in Thanksgiving.
His ability to tap into different forms of art helps him remain versatile and open-minded as an actor, qualities that will continue to serve him well as he takes on more challenging roles in the future.
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3. Gabriel Davenport as Scuba – The Adventurous Sidekick
Gabriel Davenport takes on the role of Scuba, another of Jessica’s close friends. Scuba is the adventurous and daring sidekick who often finds himself in the middle of dangerous situations.
Davenport’s experience in the entertainment industry, particularly in shows like Holly Hobbie, helped him prepare for this role, where he adeptly balances humor with genuine fear.
Davenport’s Path to Horror
Before joining the cast of Thanksgiving, Davenport appeared in various family-friendly TV shows, which might seem like an unusual transition into horror. However, this background actually made him an excellent choice for Scuba, as it provided him with a wide acting range.
The ability to shift from light-hearted banter to sheer terror is not easy, but Davenport handles it with finesse.
Davenport’s portrayal of Scuba is both relatable and endearing. He isn’t just the stereotypical “comic relief”—he brings a sense of authenticity to the group dynamic, making the friendships feel genuine.
This relatability adds weight to the character’s journey, making the audience care about his fate.
Interesting Tidbit: Gabriel Davenport did his own research into horror film tropes to better understand how to subvert them, ensuring that Scuba stood out as a memorable character in the slasher genre.
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4. Addison Rae as Gabby – The Social Media Queen
Social media sensation Addison Rae joins the cast of Thanksgiving as Gabby, the popular high school girl with a big personality. Rae’s transition from TikTok fame to feature film acting has been met with skepticism, but her performance in Thanksgiving proves that she’s more than just an influencer.
Rae’s Journey from TikTok to the Big Screen
Addison Rae gained massive fame on TikTok, amassing millions of followers for her dance routines and lifestyle content.
Her debut film role in He’s All That introduced her to a wider audience, but Thanksgiving truly allows her to explore her acting range. Gabby, while initially appearing as the stereotypical “mean girl,” evolves throughout the film, revealing layers of vulnerability and complexity.
Rae’s performance in Thanksgiving demonstrates her potential as an actress, and her chemistry with the rest of the cast feels natural. She holds her own in the film’s intense moments, proving that she’s not just a social media star but a promising talent in the acting world.
Behind the Scenes: Addison Rae spent time working with an acting coach specifically to prepare for her role in Thanksgiving, ensuring that her performance would be authentic and impactful.
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5. Patrick Dempsey as Sheriff Eric Newlan – The Veteran Actor Returns
Patrick Dempsey, best known for his role as Dr. Derek Shepherd in Grey’s Anatomy, plays Sheriff Eric Newlan in Thanksgiving. His experience and gravitas add a sense of authority and depth to the role, making him a key figure in unraveling the film’s mystery.
Dempsey’s Transition into Horror
While Patrick Dempsey has spent years portraying romantic leads and charming characters, Thanksgiving marks a return to the horror-thriller genre for him. Dempsey’s involvement in the film elevates its status, bringing credibility and a sense of nostalgia for viewers familiar with his earlier work.
As Sheriff Newlan, Dempsey plays a character who is both enigmatic and authoritative. The audience is kept guessing about his motives, adding an extra layer of suspense to the story. His portrayal shows that he can adapt to different genres, and his presence brings a sense of gravitas that anchors the film.
Fun Fact: Patrick Dempsey is a huge horror movie fan and was excited to return to the genre after a long hiatus.
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6. Rick Hoffman as Thomas Wright – A Complex Father Figure
Rick Hoffman, widely recognized for his role as Louis Litt in Suits, takes on the role of Thomas Wright, Jessica’s father. Hoffman’s ability to portray complex, multifaceted characters shines through in this role, making him an essential part of the cast of Thanksgiving.
Hoffman’s Journey from Drama to Horror
Rick Hoffman’s character, Thomas Wright, is more than just a background figure—he’s a man with a complicated past, and his relationship with his daughter Jessica is one of the film’s emotional anchors.
Known for playing intense, often abrasive characters, Hoffman brings a similar energy to this role, adding layers to his portrayal of a father grappling with his demons.
The dynamic between Hoffman and Verlaque provides the film with emotional depth, making their relationship feel real and raw. This connection helps ground the story, ensuring that Thanksgiving isn’t just about scares but also about family and personal struggles.
Trivia: Rick Hoffman reportedly drew inspiration from classic horror films to prepare for his role, immersing himself in the genre’s history to better understand his character’s motivations.
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7. Karen Cliche as Kathleen Wright
Karen Cliche, playing Kathleen Wright (Jessica’s mother), adds another dimension to the film. Cliche is no stranger to action-packed roles, having appeared in shows like Mutant X and Flash Gordon.
In Thanksgiving, her role as the emotionally torn mother who tries to protect her family adds much-needed depth to the slasher narrative.
Cliche’s portrayal of Kathleen contrasts well with the chaos unfolding in the town, grounding the film in a sense of familial love and survival. Her character arc also introduces a critical subplot that expands the film’s emotional resonance beyond the typical horror fare.
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8. The Killer – The Mysterious and Terrifying Presence
No horror film is complete without its villain, and in Thanksgiving, the masked killer is a truly terrifying force. This character’s backstory, motivations, and eerie presence are what make the film so effective in building suspense and delivering scares.
The Mask – An Iconic Horror Symbol
The killer’s mask in Thanksgiving has quickly become a recognizable symbol of the film, combining traditional Thanksgiving elements with an unsettling, grotesque design. This mask pays homage to classic slasher villains while introducing something new and haunting, making the killer a memorable addition to horror movie history.
The design of the mask was a collaborative effort between the director, Eli Roth, and the film’s costume department, ensuring that it would leave a lasting impression on audiences.
Supporting Cast Members and Their Impact
The supporting cast in Thanksgiving also plays a pivotal role in shaping the film’s narrative. Each actor brings something unique to the table, contributing to the overall atmosphere and intensity of the story.
- Karen Cliche as Kathleen Wright: Jessica’s mother, Kathleen, adds a strong maternal presence to the film, and Cliche’s portrayal brings both warmth and strength to the character.
- Ty Olsson as Mitch Collins: Olsson’s rugged portrayal of a local townsman adds tension and mystery to the plot, keeping audiences on edge.
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Final Thoughts: A New Horror Classic in the Making?
As Thanksgiving continues to make waves in the box office, it’s clear that the film is resonating with audiences.
Its combination of suspense, gore, and humor, combined with strong performances from the ensemble cast, ensures that it will be remembered as one of the standout horror films of 2023. For fans of Eli Roth’s previous work, Thanksgiving delivers exactly what they expect—brutal kills, dark humor, and a memorable villain.
But the film also appeals to a broader audience, thanks to its accessible blend of horror and comedy.
With memorable characters like Jessica Wright (played by Nell Verlaque), Gabby (Addison Rae), and Sheriff Eric Newlan (Patrick Dempsey), Thanksgiving has all the makings of a future cult classic.
As the film gains traction on streaming platforms and social media, its legacy will likely continue to grow, cementing its place in the horror-comedy genre.
FAQs
Q1: What is the premise of Thanksgiving (2023)?
The film centers around a series of murders that take place in a small town after a Black Friday riot. The murders are tied to the town’s dark past and the killer’s motives are revealed as the story unfolds.
Q2: Who directed Thanksgiving?
The film was directed by Eli Roth, a renowned filmmaker known for his work in the horror genre, including Hostel and Cabin Fever.
Q3: Which actor plays the lead role of Jessica Wright?
Jessica Wright is portrayed by Nell Verlaque, known for her work in Big Shots and The Marijuana Conspiracy.
Q4: Is Thanksgiving based on a true story?
No, Thanksgiving is a fictional story, though it draws inspiration from real-world events like Black Friday shopping chaos.
Q5: Will there be a sequel to Thanksgiving?
As of now, there has been no official announcement regarding a sequel, but given the film’s success, it’s certainly a possibility.
“Sofia Grace is an experienced blogger at Pulsevilla.com, passionate about bringing the latest news in entertainment, Latest Movies and celebrity culture. With a keen eye for detail and storytelling, she offers readers insightful and engaging content on the stars and trends shaping today’s world.”
