My quick rating - 6,1/10. Very well-made yet bland horror story. The first thing that comes to mind when the credits hit the screen. This flick is a film that seems to have all the right ingredients for a spine-chilling horror story: a grieving family, a sinister presence, and a desperate struggle for survival. While it undeniably boasts a high level of craftsmanship, this movie, unfortunately, falls into the trap of predictability and fails to offer anything substantially new to the genre. The film opens with a promising premise: two sisters, still mourning the loss of their mother, are tormented by an evil force within their own home. The emotional weight of their grief is palpable, providing a strong foundation for the story. Sophie Thatcher does an exceptional job of demonstrating this in a modern way. The cinematography is impeccable, creating a haunting atmosphere that permeates every scene. The tension is expertly crafted, and there are moments where the audience is left on the edge of their seats, waiting for the next scare. However, despite its technical prowess, the movie struggles to break free from the shackles of clichés that have haunted horror flix for years. The plot follows a predictable trajectory, hitting all the familiar beats of the genre without adding much as far as innovative twists or surprises. The characters, although well-acted, lack depth and dimension, making it difficult for the audience to fully invest in their plight. The sadistic presence haunting the family feels like a recycled version of countless other supernatural entities seen in horror movies, lacking a unique identity of its own. I suppose it is called the Boogeyman so I shouldn't be so critical since it is most parents "go to" monster scare to keep the kids at bay. One of the film's most significant shortcomings is its inability to explore the psychological aspects of the characters' experiences fully. Overall it is a well-made film in terms of technical aspects, but it fails to distinguish itself from the myriad of horror movies that have come before it. Rob Savage has been inconsistent with his flix but I would say he does have another hit with this one. While it may provide a few good scares for casual horror fans, those seeking a more profound and intellectually stimulating cinematic experience might find themselves disappointed. Despite the competent direction and solid performances, the film ultimately succumbs to the limitations of its genre, offering a forgettable and formulaic scare-fest that, like the titular boogeyman, fades into the shadows of countless other horror films.
Still streaming for theater-at-home pricing in early September.
