Malevolent (2018) – Movie Review
Introduction
“Malevolent,” released in 2018, is a supernatural horror film directed by Olaf de Fleur Johannesson. The movie, based on the novel “Hush” by Eva Konstantopoulos, stars Florence Pugh, Ben Lloyd-Hughes, and Celia Imrie. It follows a group of scam artists who get more than they bargained for when they take on a job at a haunted house. This review delves into the plot, performances, direction, and overall impact of the film, along with providing information on where to stream or purchase it in America.
Plot Summary
The story centers on siblings Angela (Florence Pugh) and Jackson (Ben Lloyd-Hughes), who run a fake ghost-hunting business. They deceive grieving families into believing they can communicate with their deceased loved ones. Angela, who pretends to have psychic abilities, begins experiencing genuine supernatural occurrences during their latest job at the derelict home of Mrs. Green (Celia Imrie).
Mrs. Green’s house, a former orphanage, is haunted by the spirits of young girls who were brutally murdered. As Angela’s visions intensify, the team discovers the dark secrets of the house and its former residents. What starts as a routine con job quickly turns into a battle for survival against malevolent forces beyond their control.
Performances
Florence Pugh delivers a standout performance as Angela, showcasing her range and ability to convey vulnerability and strength. Pugh’s portrayal of Angela’s gradual unraveling as she confronts the supernatural is compelling and adds depth to the character.
Ben Lloyd-Hughes provides a solid performance as Jackson, the opportunistic and morally ambiguous brother. His chemistry with Pugh enhances their sibling dynamic, grounding the story in their relationship.
Celia Imrie is chilling as Mrs. Green, the enigmatic and tormented owner of the haunted house. Her portrayal brings an unsettling presence to the film, adding to the overall atmosphere of dread.
Direction and Cinematography
Olaf de Fleur Johannesson’s direction emphasizes atmosphere and tension, creating a palpable sense of unease throughout the film. The use of dim lighting, tight spaces, and eerie sound design effectively builds suspense and enhances the supernatural elements.
The cinematography by Annika Summerson captures the gloomy and foreboding setting of the haunted house. The camera work, combined with the production design, immerses viewers in the claustrophobic and unsettling environment, heightening the horror experience.
Critique
“Malevolent” succeeds in creating a chilling atmosphere and delivers a few genuinely frightening moments. The film’s pacing is deliberate, gradually building tension as the story unfolds. However, the plot is somewhat predictable, and seasoned horror fans may find some of the twists and turns familiar.
The film’s strength lies in its performances, particularly Florence Pugh’s, and its ability to maintain a suspenseful and eerie tone. The exploration of themes such as guilt, deception, and the consequences of past actions adds a layer of depth to the horror narrative.
While “Malevolent” doesn’t reinvent the genre, it offers a solid and engaging supernatural horror experience. The combination of strong acting, atmospheric direction, and a haunting setting makes it a worthwhile watch for horror enthusiasts.
Streaming and Purchase Options
For those interested in watching “Malevolent,” there are several options available in America:
- Streaming Services: The film is available for streaming on Netflix. Subscribers can watch the movie at no additional cost.
- Rental and Purchase: You can rent or purchase the movie on digital platforms like Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Apple iTunes, and Vudu. Prices for renting typically range from $2.99 to $3.99, while purchasing the film can cost between $9.99 to $14.99 depending on the platform and video quality.
Conclusion
“Malevolent” is a haunting and atmospheric supernatural horror film that benefits from strong performances, particularly from Florence Pugh. While the plot may not offer many surprises, the film’s ability to maintain tension and create a chilling atmosphere makes it an engaging watch. Horror fans looking for a film with genuine scares and a compelling lead performance will find “Malevolent” a solid addition to their viewing list. The movie is readily accessible on various streaming and rental platforms, making it easy to experience this spine-tingling tale.
