Entertainment Blog #151 | The Boogeyman [2023] - Don't Let the Lights Go Down..
Rob Savage's 2023 film, "The Boogeyman," offers a terrifying exploration into the depths of supernatural horror, taking inspiration from Stephen King's 1973 short story of the same name. The narrative centers around the Harper family, still reeling from the loss of their mother, as they find themselves entangled in a terrifying chain of incidents involving an ancient and malevolent entity. The film entangles an atmosphere of nervousness and tension, improved by strong performances from Sophie Thatcher, Chris Messina, Vivien Lyra Blair, and David Dastmalchian.
Talking about the story, after the loss osthe mother, Harper family is in recovery mode. With the two daughters, Sadie & Sawyer, Will who is a therapist is trying to rebuild himself as a single father. in the interim, this random guy, Lester comes to therapy session and that day, the recovery mode of the family turns upside down once and for all.
Following the tragic incident, the younger daughter, Sawyer starts seeing and hearing things which ends up her in therapy sessions with another therapist. Sooner, Sadie starts to realize that her sister is not all wrong. And now, Sadie has to defend this whatever creature or ghost before it takes another family member from them..
Savage skillfully constructs an eerie and horrifying atmosphere, engaging the audience in the family's struggle against the Boogeyman, a creature that feeds on fear and can manipulate reality through imitation of voices. The film's theme of exploration of grief, loss, and the fragility of the human mind adds depth to the horror, making it not just a tale of supernatural terror but also a psychological thriller. The pacing, supported by atmospheric cinematography and an provocative score, builds a visible sense of dread as the family battles this insidious force.
"The Boogeyman" received mixed reviews from critics, with praise directed toward its spooky atmosphere, solid performances, and effective use of suspense. The film's ability to keep chills coming, combined with its memorable visual style, showcases Savage's professional direction. However, some critics note the dependence on horror conventions and jump scares that might feel predictable to well-versed horror fans. Despite this, "The Boogeyman" is credited with maintaining tension and providing a satisfying experience for those seeking an eerie and engaging supernatural horror story.
While "The Boogeyman" successfully captivates with its suspenseful moments and creative interpretation of King's story, some critics point out that the film occasionally leans on familiar horror tropes and jump scares. The tension built throughout the film's duration sometimes gives way to a more traditional resolution, and some viewers may find the ending to be less satisfying than the buildup. Nevertheless, the film remains an intriguing addition to the horror genre, offering a compelling blend of supernatural elements and emotional depth.
"The Boogeyman" successfully restores a classic Stephen King tale into a cinematic experience that succeeds on its eerie atmosphere and psychological depth. While not without minor flaws, the film's strong performances and inspiring storytelling create an engaging and spine-tingling ride that delves into the darkness lurking within the supernatural and the human mind.