Jeremiah Jeno

Tension is what makes this movie and it does it so well In the first 2 acts of building it up that it’s the tension itself that makes the movie thrilling or “scary”, almost to the point where the action doesn’t feel as though it translates well in comparison. I definitely think this is a perfect movie theater experience and if you’re wondering whether or not to see it while it’s in, I 100% believe it is worth it. *Spoilers ahead* If I could, I would absolutely give this movie 4.5 stars because I adored the amazing cast who elevate the film to a high degree, and the very simple but effective cinematography with my only real gripe about the film being its portrayal of toxic masculinity. It does a wonderful and tasteful job in showcasing McAvoy’s talents as our “bad guy” lead in Paddy and hits home with how twisted his psyche is with his overly masculine and gruff ideals constantly at odds with Davis’s character, Louise’s, progressive stance. My only issue with this is in lifting up Davis’s character it unfortunately drags down her husband Ben, McNairy’s spineless and weak willed character. He unfortunately does not get a single win in this movie, he loses every argument, every physical engagement, and he is the driving force as to why they even fell into McAvoy’s web and it feels as though the film constantly just beats him down whereas I would have preferred to see a more positive male figure who isn’t just a punching bag to stand beside Davis and contrast with McAvoy. In saying that though I did really enjoy the message of how easily men today are lured in, especially younger men who don’t have an outlet or positive male role model as it’s a very alienating experience with it being showcased perfectly with how well he and McAvoy got along after Paddy started manipulating Ben by telling him he’s right to be angry and by giving him the gratification of a win, a feeling hes been seeking the entire film. Overall I think the movie was brilliant and I’m happy Blumhouse finally got their win after it seemed they too were only batting strikes. As I said earlier it was also a great theater going experience and I’m excited to see how well that translates into at home viewing.