Review of Hush (2016) by Adal R — 27 Apr 2016

Hush is an exceptionally tense thriller that consists of a plot we've seen a million times before. However, it is presented with a refreshing twist that enables new situations of heart-pounding intensity to be demonstrated.

The high level of suspense found in this movie is primarily achieved through to Flanagan's clever direction, and use of silence as a crucial horror element. Kate Siegel's fantastic performance also helps set the tense atmosphere, as her character's hearing disability pushes her to think outside the box and find clever ways to fend off the psychotic killer in her home.

The good aspects in this movie greatly overshadow the negative, which there are only a few of. John Gallagher Jr.'s performance as the antagonist is only passable, as a more compelling villain could have brought an interesting layer to the movie's rather simplistic story. However, the movie is well aware that it's a simple, tense slasher film, and doesn't go out of its way to become anything more. This allows for more time to be spent on developing the intensity of the situations presented in the film.

Overall, Hush is a solid film that any suspense/horror fan must see. Though it does have its few and minor flaws, the films direction and premise quickly overshadow them, as the viewer is drawn in for a familiar experience, that at the same time feels new and refreshing.