Review of Shut In (2016) by Junelkean — 26 Jan 2018

When we're talking about Alfred Hitcock films, we definitely talk about films that became powerful tools in changing the path of cinema. Like the iconic shower scene from "Psycho." As a matter of fact, his eerie styles has influenced many contemporary filmmakers. Rob Reiner's "Misery" is a great example of his influence. So, would "Shut In" be a great successor to both Misery and Psycho?

Thriller fans want films set in a heavy, chilling winter location, where the characters are trapped in a house, and there are few signs of help. These has what Misery has done. And for Shut In, director Farren Blackburn at least delivers in constructing the believable setting and claustrophobic aspects of the film. But that doesn't mean it's a good film.

The first two acts of the movie is a compilation of everything a horror slash suspense movie should not be. Imagine a movie, filled with cheap falsescares such as when a raccoon jumps out of nowhere, stupid Skype video calls and countless of dream sequences. All of these, done in an hour! There are also some one-note characters who brings nothing special to the screen.

VERDICT: "Ha! It's only a dream!" and "Wait, that's just a falsescare?" - all of these stupid things, done many times throughout the film. Well, at least, it manages to be the title itself.