Image: It Comes at Night Source: Wikimedia Commons
When the world is consumed by a highly contagious disease, survival becomes the ultimate goal. Trey Edward Shults' 2017 psychological horror film, It Comes at Night, delves into the depths of human desperation as a family fights for their lives in a secluded forest. Starring Joel Edgerton, Christopher Abbott, Carmen Ejogo, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and Riley Keough, this gripping tale explores the lengths we are willing to go to protect our loved ones.
A Fight for Survival
In a post-apocalyptic world, a couple named Paul and Sarah, along with their teenage son Travis, find solace in their hidden abode deep within the woods. As the disease continues to spread relentlessly, they are faced with a heartbreaking decision when Sarah's father falls victim to the illness. Determined to protect themselves, they resort to extreme measures, burning his body to prevent the contagion from spreading further.
But their solitude is shattered when they capture an intruder attempting to break into their sanctuary. The stranger, named Will, reveals his desperate search for fresh water for his own family. Sarah suggests taking them in, believing that strength lies in numbers. Paul reluctantly agrees, and the two families unite in their fight against the encroaching darkness.
Trust and Betrayal
As the days pass, a fragile sense of normalcy begins to take shape. However, a series of unsettling events begins to unravel the trust that has been carefully established. Travis, the young son, hears mysterious sounds in the woods, setting off a chain of suspicion. Will's actions raise doubts, and as tensions rise, the line between friend and foe becomes blurred.
Image: It Comes at Night Source: Wikimedia Commons
When Stanley, the dog, chases an unseen presence into the woods, the families are faced with a new and terrifying reality. Fear grips their hearts as they find a gravely sick Stanley and an open front door. Suspicions run high, and they suspect one of their own may be infected. Quarantine measures are put into place, and trust teeters on the edge of a knife.
The Darkness Within
As the darkness envelops their lives, a harrowing truth begins to emerge. Travis, plagued by nightmares, discovers Andrew, Will's son, suffering from a similar fate. Panic and despair take hold as the realization of their dire situation sets in. No longer able to deny the inevitable, Paul and Sarah prepare to face the consequences of their choices.
In a chilling climax, their world crumbles, and the lines between right and wrong blur beyond recognition. As Travis succumbs to the illness, Paul and Sarah, visibly infected, sit in silence, their shattered hearts in a silent conversation.
A Cinematic Masterpiece
Shot beautifully by cinematographer Drew Daniels and accompanied by an evocative score by Brian McOmber, It Comes at Night immerses audiences in a world brimming with fear and uncertainty. Trey Edward Shults' unique vision and direction create an atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll.
Image: Trey Edward Shults Source: Wikimedia Commons
A Horror Journey with Depth
While It Comes at Night showcases the horrors of a post-apocalyptic world, it goes beyond the surface-level scares. Trey Edward Shults draws inspiration from renowned filmmakers like Paul Thomas Anderson and John Cassavetes, resulting in a film that explores the depths of human emotion and the complexities of trust and survival.
A Critical Reception
Critics lauded the film for its ability to captivate and terrify viewers. With an approval rating of 88% on Rotten Tomatoes, It Comes at Night is praised for its effective use of minimalistic elements, proving that sometimes the unseen is the most horrifying. Audiences, however, had mixed reactions, resulting in a lower CinemaScore grade.
A Journey into Darkness
It Comes at Night takes its place among the great psychological horror films of our time. With its chilling atmosphere, powerful performances, and thought-provoking narrative, it leaves a lasting impact on those brave enough to venture into its haunting world. Brace yourself for a journey that will keep you on the edge of your seat, questioning the boundaries of humanity.
References
- "It Comes at Night". IMDb. Retrieved from imdb.com
- "It Comes at Night - Official Trailer HD". A24. Retrieved from youtube.com
- Tallerico, Brian. "'It Comes at Night' Review". RogerEbert.com. Retrieved from rogerebert.com
- "It Comes at Night". Rotten Tomatoes. Retrieved from rottentomatoes.com
- "It Comes at Night". Metacritic. Retrieved from metacritic.com
