Review of Hush (2016) by India C — 20 Apr 2016

It is difficult for me to find a horror/thriller that doesn't frustrate me with its protagonist immediately. Twice, the first occasion with Oculus, and now again with Hush, Mike Flanagan has made his distinction clear from a frequently-abysmal genre.

I rooted for Maddie, Sarah, and John with more care than I ever give to characters trying to survive these situations. Usually, I find their reactions or reasonings weak, the writing unflattering, and the acting subpar, but Hush stands above the rest.

It is rare to find a lead as compelling as Maddie, but when you do, it is impossible to look away. It felt as if Mike, Kate, and everyone involved valued Maddie as more than a token character or expendable horror stereotype.

She was cherished for what she personally brought to the table and her inability to hear or speak was tastefully used in the narrative so that it didn't sensationalize or bastardize deaf, hard-of-hearing, or mute individuals.

While respecting Maddie and maintaining its general integrity, Hush is able to tell a provocative and exciting story that demands your attention from start to finish. With brilliant performances from the small, but integral cast, Hush delivers a gratifying experience for nearly every kind of movie-watcher.

I suggest this to anyone who isn't intimidated by the thriller section and look forward to see what both Mike and Kate have in store for fans in the future.