Review of Descent (2007) by Sarfaraz A — 09 Feb 2014

A superb breath of fresh air in the horror genre that pits the fear of claustrophobia amongst a terrifying breed of blind demonic cave dwelling creatures in what is a super action flick. In an all star female cast, we witness 6 adrenaline junkies go on a caving expedition a year after one of the group tragically lost her husband and daughter in a car accident.

What sets out as a routine plunge into the catacombs soon turns nasty when they realise that no one knows the route to what is an unfounded part of the map. With no clear evidence that anyone has actually made it out alive from these parts, panic sets in as a rockfall blocks their planned exit and a freak accident leaves one member struggling to walk.

That's not all they must contend with though as midway through the film, it is soon evident that they're not alone down there, and in fact they're being hunted by some blind predators keen to feast on some fresh meat.

With these unique carnivores using their hearing only, it's up to the group to remain calm and keep a silent profile as they go in search of the daylight. As if the concept wasn't scary enough with the idea of being trapped deep beneath the earths surface with walls seemingly caving in, I love the added twist this produces to make it double the nightmare, and twice the entertainment value for the audience.

With other little twists and turns throughout, all of the characters have their part to play in what is a fairly new bunch of cast and crew. It's the one thing in life I couldn't imagine myself doing anyway, never mind the thought of these beasts now joining me down there, but as a cinematic spectacle I can foresee me watching this over and over again.