Ouija: Origin of Evil (2016) Movie Review: A Chilling Prequel to the Haunted Board Game
Released in 2016, Ouija: Origin of Evil serves as a prequel to the 2014 horror film Ouija. Directed by Mike Flanagan, known for his work on The Haunting of Hill House and Gerald’s Game, this film delves into the sinister world of the Ouija board and the dark forces it can unleash. With a compelling storyline, well-developed characters, and a haunting atmosphere, Ouija: Origin of Evil manages to rise above the average horror flick, offering an engaging experience for genre enthusiasts.
In this review, we’ll explore the plot, performances, and themes of the film, as well as where to watch it online.
Plot Summary: A Family’s Descent into Darkness
Set in 1967 Los Angeles, Ouija: Origin of Evil follows the story of a widowed mother, Alice Zander (Elizabeth Reaser), and her two daughters, Lina (Annalise Basso) and Doris (Lulu Wilson). To supplement their income, Alice runs a fake séance business, using her charm and sleight of hand to deceive clients into believing they can communicate with the dead. However, when Doris inadvertently comes into contact with a genuine Ouija board during a séance, the family’s lives take a terrifying turn.
Doris becomes possessed by a malevolent spirit, and the Zander family finds themselves haunted by dark forces beyond their control. As Alice tries to understand what’s happening to her daughter, she discovers the disturbing history of the Ouija board and the entity that now seeks to consume Doris completely.
The film effectively explores themes of grief, loss, and the lengths a mother will go to protect her children, all while ramping up the horror elements.
Strong Performances: The Zander Family Dynamics
One of the film’s standout aspects is the strong performances from its cast.
- Elizabeth Reaser as Alice Zander: Reaser delivers a compelling portrayal of Alice, a mother struggling to hold her family together while trying to navigate her own grief. Her character’s desperation becomes palpable as the supernatural events unfold, and her performance adds emotional weight to the horror.
- Annalise Basso as Lina Zander: Basso’s portrayal of Lina, the older sister, is both strong and sympathetic. She balances being protective of her younger sister while grappling with the increasingly eerie occurrences surrounding them.
- Lulu Wilson as Doris Zander: Wilson shines as Doris, effectively embodying the innocence of a young girl who unwittingly invites a dark force into her life. Her transition from a playful child to a possessed victim is both chilling and heartbreaking, making her performance a highlight of the film.
Mike Flanagan’s Direction: Crafting Atmosphere and Tension
Mike Flanagan’s direction elevates Ouija: Origin of Evil beyond typical horror fare. He expertly crafts a tense and atmospheric environment, using practical effects and clever camera work to build suspense. The film is visually striking, with a retro aesthetic that pays homage to horror films of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Flanagan understands the importance of pacing in horror. He takes his time to develop characters and establish a sense of normalcy before introducing the supernatural elements, allowing for a gradual build-up of tension. The scares are well-timed, often relying on suspenseful moments rather than excessive jump scares, creating a more immersive and frightening experience.
Themes of Grief and Motherhood
At its core, Ouija: Origin of Evil explores deep themes of grief and the bond between mothers and their children. Alice’s struggles to provide for her family while dealing with the loss of her husband create an emotional backdrop that resonates throughout the film. The supernatural elements serve as a metaphor for her inability to let go of her past and her desperate need to protect her daughters at all costs.
The film also touches on the dangers of seeking closure or communication with the dead, suggesting that some forces are best left undisturbed. As Alice delves deeper into the world of the Ouija board, she learns that her attempts to reconnect with her deceased husband may come with dire consequences.
Critical Reception: A Solid Addition to the Horror Genre
Upon its release, Ouija: Origin of Evil received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. Many praised the film for its well-crafted scares, strong performances, and effective storytelling. The film was noted for successfully improving upon its predecessor, with critics highlighting Flanagan’s direction as a significant factor in its success.
While some horror fans appreciated the depth of character and emotional storytelling, others felt that it followed familiar genre tropes. Nevertheless, the film’s ability to balance scares with character development helped it stand out among other horror films of its time.
Where to Watch Ouija: Origin of Evil Online
If you’re interested in watching Ouija: Origin of Evil, here are some streaming options available as of 2024:
1. Streaming Services: Subscription-Based Platforms
- Netflix: The film is often available on Netflix, allowing subscribers to stream it as part of their subscription. Check the platform to see if it’s currently available in your region.
- Amazon Prime Video: The movie may be included in the Amazon Prime catalog, or you can rent or purchase it for streaming.
2. Rental and Purchase Options
- Apple iTunes: Rent or purchase Ouija: Origin of Evil on iTunes, where it’s available in high-definition formats.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Rent or buy the film on Google Play for streaming on various devices.
- Vudu: The movie is available for rent or purchase on Vudu, offering it in different viewing formats.
- YouTube Movies: You can also rent or purchase Ouija: Origin of Evil through YouTube Movies.
Conclusion: A Chilling and Engaging Horror Film
Ouija: Origin of Evil successfully builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, delivering a compelling and atmospheric horror experience. With strong performances, effective direction from Mike Flanagan, and a deep exploration of grief and motherhood, the film stands out as a solid entry in the horror genre. Whether you’re a fan of supernatural scares or character-driven storytelling, this film is sure to leave you on the edge of your seat.
