Review of Descent (2007) by Mark S — 09 Dec 2011

One of the best horror movies out there. While Neil Marshall's directorial debut Dog Soldiers was a solid entry in the horror world this supersedes it in buckets full. It's a slow start but done wonderfully.

Because the slow pace at the beginning is almost like first moments of a roller coaster. The tension is almost tangible. When it goes over the edge it just doesn't let up until you come to a juddering halt.

And the slow bits are never dull. Great build up for subplots and character development. All the horror techniques are used here, there are enough jumps that every pause will have you ready to flinch, but there's also fantastic use of suspense and everything about the film oozes menace and foreboding.

A special mention is needed for the music. Like all good scores, it goes mostly unnoticed. The lighting is also masterful. Very well crafted to show you just what's in front of your face and not much else.

The set designs are wonderful and gives you an urgent sense of claustrophobia. The action and gore effects are intense and ruthless. You get a real sense that no one is safe. That it's anybody's game to either survive or die.

From beginning to end this hits all the right spots and Hollywood should take note. This is how you make a fucking horror movie.