Matt Greenstreet

"Sinister" (2012) attempts to delve into the horror genre but ends up being a disappointing and formulaic exercise in clichés. The film, directed by Scott Derrickson, squanders a potentially chilling premise with lackluster execution and a reliance on tired horror tropes. Ethan Hawke, in the lead role, struggles to elevate the material with a performance that feels more forced than genuinely terrified. His character's descent into obsession lacks nuance, coming off as more annoying than empathetic. The attempts at portraying a troubled writer unraveling in the face of supernatural horror fall flat due to a combination of weak writing and uninspired acting. The film's biggest sin is its over-reliance on cheap jump scares and predictable plot twists. Any semblance of suspense is quickly eroded by a barrage of loud noises and sudden movements, reducing the horror experience to a tedious and predictable affair. The so-called "found footage" element, often a staple in modern horror, is poorly integrated, feeling like a forced attempt to capitalize on a popular trend rather than a narrative necessity. While the central concept of a malevolent supernatural force tied to a series of disturbing home videos has potential, "Sinister" fails to capitalize on it. The film's attempts at building tension are undermined by its own predictability, leaving audiences more frustrated than frightened. The characters surrounding Hawke's protagonist are one-dimensional, serving as mere fodder for the supernatural entity rather than contributing to any meaningful plot development. The lack of depth in characterization diminishes any emotional investment the audience might have had in the fates of these characters. Furthermore, the film's conclusion feels rushed and unsatisfying, leaving numerous unanswered questions that contribute more to frustration than intrigue. It's a lackluster resolution to a narrative that promised much more than it delivered. In summary, "Sinister" is a forgettable entry into the horror genre, marred by uninspired performances, predictable scares, and a narrative that fails to live up to its initial potential. It ultimately relies on tired horror clichés, leaving audiences with a sense of dissatisfaction and a yearning for a more genuinely unsettling cinematic experience.