Review of It Comes at Night (2017) by Orlando O — 14 Sep 2017

It Comes At Night is a psychological horror movie that is unsettling with its tone, direction and even the music score. I was very impressed with the film since it kept myself engaged to the screen through the whole movie. Even once it was over, it kind of left you wanting to talk about what just happened. This is definitely the film that is best to watch with knowing less about it. And avoid the trailers. Also, it may be hard to talk about it without giving away any details or spoilers.

From what I can say about the plot is about a family that is secluded in the middle of nowhere in the forest. And a rule about no one leaving the house at night and there one way into the house is locked shut. The theme and tone of the movie creates more fear on what is outside the house or what lies beyond the forest. But the fears within themselves that is inside the house. Even when characters are having nightmares that is foreshadowing or being locked up inside may create their own madness.

The direction worked so well in building the mystery suspense. The script by Trey Edward Shults that is about a family secluded in a cabin and a little backstory information about what they are hiding from and trying to survive against does create some goosebumps.

The music score was also great and worked with the film. The dream sequences can be a little unsettling and making you feel unease.

This is definitely the film that may not be for everyone. It will have a divide audience that will like it or hate it. It can be slow moving with nothing happening at all which some people will complain about. But the whole purpose of the film is about survival and what lies within their safe haven. The ending does leave you with something to talk about.

Joel Edgerton, Christopher Abbot, Carmen Ejogo, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and Riley Keough were all great with their performances.

Overall, It Comes at Night is a good film. The direction and tone is mystery suspense that builds up tension to the end. The acting was great. The music score was good. It may be slow moving.

I rate the film 4 out of 5 stars.