It Comes at Night (2017)

It Comes at Night (2017): A Haunting Exploration of Fear and Survival

Introduction:

"It Comes at Night" is a 2017 Hollywood horror movie that masterfully blends psychological tension with post-apocalyptic dread. Directed and written by Trey Edward Shults, this film delivers a chilling experience that delves deep into the human psyche when confronted with unknown threats and the instinct for survival. The movie stars Joel Edgerton, Christopher Abbott, Carmen Ejogo, and Kelvin Harrison Jr. in pivotal roles, creating an intense ensemble that adds depth and nuance to the narrative.

Plot Synopsis:

Set in a world ravaged by a mysterious and deadly contagion, "It Comes at Night" tells the story of a family trying to isolate themselves from danger in a remote house in the woods to protect themselves from the deadly virus sweeping the nation. Paul (Joel Edgerton) and his wife Sarah (Carmen Ejogo) live with their teenage son Travis (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) in a secluded cabin, employing strict security measures to keep any potential threats out.

Their carefully maintained isolation is disrupted when a desperate family arrives at their doorstep. Will (Christopher Abbott), his wife Kim (Riley Keough), and their younger son cannot find refuge elsewhere and seek shelter. Paul, after much hesitation and tension, agrees to let them stay temporarily, but the arrival of outsiders in this already fragile environment generates immense paranoia, fear, and conflict among both families.

As the story progresses, the movie explores themes of trust, fear, and the breakdown of familial bonds under extreme stress. The characters grapple with the anxieties of not only the external threats such as the deadly virus and possible intruders but also internal battles—especially the dread of what "comes at night," a fearful notion which represents the unknown dangers lurking beyond their doors.

Main Actors and Their Performances:

• Joel Edgerton (Paul): A powerful portrayal of a protective father and husband who takes drastic measures to ensure his family’s safety. Edgerton’s intense performance captures the complexities of a man teetering between reason, paranoia, and desperation.
• Christopher Abbott (Will): Abbott delivers a nuanced performance as a man pushed to his limits by circumstance, desperately seeking safety for his own family and clashing with Paul’s distrust.
• Carmen Ejogo (Sarah): As Paul’s wife, Carmen brings emotional depth to the character, illustrating the strain and vulnerability that the apocalyptic setting inflicts on the family unit.
• Kelvin Harrison Jr. (Travis): Playing the teenager caught in the middle, Harrison portrays the confusion and innocence threatened by a world turned upside down.

Director and Writer:

Trey Edward Shults serves as both the director and writer for "It Comes at Night." This film marked an important point in Shults’ career, showcasing his talent for crafting atmospheric tension and layered storytelling. His direction is minimalist yet potent, relying on subtle character development and creeping dread rather than conventional horror tropes. The screenplay is taut, full of ambiguity and open-ended questions that encourage viewers to engage with the film’s psychological complexities.

Stylistic Elements and Themes:

The film employs a subdued color palette and dim lighting to mirror the foreboding mood of the narrative. Cinematographer Drew Daniels uses close-up shots and confined spaces to enhance the claustrophobic feeling that pervades throughout. Moreover, the absence of a traditional horror soundtrack builds tension organically, making the rare sounds—like creaking doors and whispered voices—more impactful.

At its core, "It Comes at Night" is less about the virus itself and more about what fear does to people. It’s an examination of paranoia, mistrust, and moral ambiguity in extreme situations. The story challenges viewers to ask themselves what they would do to protect their loved ones and how easily humanity can break down when survival is at stake.

Reception and Impact:

Critical reception towards the film was mixed, with many praising its atmosphere, direction, and performances, particularly Joel Edgerton’s. However, some viewers found its vague storytelling and slow pace frustrating. Nevertheless, the movie stands out as a psychological horror that favors subtlety over scares, making it a memorable and thought-provoking piece in the genre.

"It Comes at Night" does not rely on graphic violence or jump scares but instead creates an unsettling experience that stays with you long after the credits roll. Its ability to evoke dread through human emotion and psychological stress sets it apart from typical horror fare.

Conclusion:

In summary, "It Comes at Night" is a haunting, character-driven horror movie that explores fear, family, and survival. Directed and written by Trey Edward Shults, featuring compelling performances led by Joel Edgerton and Christopher Abbott, the movie offers a fresh and introspective take on apocalyptic storytelling. Its powerful themes and atmospheric execution make it an essential watch for fans of thought-provoking and psychologically rich horror films.

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