Pulse (2006) Movie Review: A Haunting Take on Technology
“Pulse,” released in 2006, is a supernatural horror film directed by Jim Sonzero. The film stars Kristen Bell, Ian Somerhalder, and Christina Milian, and is based on the 2001 Japanese film “Kairo” directed by Kiyoshi Kurosawa. “Pulse” delves into the fear of technology and its potential to connect us to a sinister, otherworldly realm. With its eerie atmosphere and chilling premise, “Pulse” offers a thought-provoking and unsettling experience.
Plot Summary
The story begins with Mattie Webber (Kristen Bell), a college student who becomes concerned when her boyfriend Josh (Jonathan Tucker) stops responding to her messages. When she visits his apartment, she finds him in a disturbed state, and shortly after, he commits suicide. Mattie discovers that Josh had been working on a mysterious computer program that could connect to the dead.
As Mattie and her friends investigate further, they encounter a series of inexplicable and terrifying events linked to the program. People around them start to disappear, leaving behind only shadows and a sense of despair. The program’s connection to the supernatural becomes increasingly apparent, as it appears that the dead are using technology to enter the world of the living.
Desperate to stop the spread of this malevolent force, Mattie teams up with Dexter (Ian Somerhalder), a computer hacker who helps her trace the origins of the program. Together, they must find a way to shut down the gateway between the living and the dead before it consumes them all.
Cast and Performances
Kristen Bell delivers a strong performance as Mattie Webber, effectively conveying her character’s determination and fear. Bell’s portrayal anchors the film, providing a relatable and empathetic protagonist for the audience to follow. Her interactions with the other characters, particularly Ian Somerhalder’s Dexter, add depth to the story and highlight the human element amidst the supernatural chaos.
Ian Somerhalder brings a rebellious charm to his role as Dexter, complementing Bell’s performance and adding a dynamic contrast to the film’s tension. Christina Milian as Isabel and Rick Gonzalez as Stone also contribute solid performances, enhancing the ensemble cast and adding to the film’s sense of urgency and dread.
Visuals and Direction
Jim Sonzero’s direction emphasizes a bleak and haunting atmosphere, utilizing dim lighting and desaturated colors to create a sense of unease. The film’s visual style reflects the themes of isolation and despair, with the pervasive darkness mirroring the encroaching threat from the supernatural realm. The use of practical effects and CGI to depict the eerie manifestations of the dead is effective, adding to the film’s unsettling ambiance.
The cinematography captures the claustrophobic and oppressive nature of the story, with tight shots and confined spaces heightening the tension. The film’s sound design further enhances the experience, using ambient noises and unsettling audio effects to keep the audience on edge.
Themes and Style
“Pulse” explores themes of isolation, the fear of the unknown, and the potential dangers of technology. The film raises questions about the consequences of our increasing reliance on digital communication and the unseen connections it creates. The supernatural elements serve as a metaphor for the loss of human connection in a technologically saturated world.
The film’s style blends traditional horror with psychological elements, creating a slow-building sense of dread rather than relying on jump scares. This approach allows the story’s themes to resonate more deeply, making the horror feel more grounded and impactful.
Critical Reception
“Pulse” received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised the film’s atmosphere, visuals, and thematic depth, others felt that it did not live up to the original Japanese film. Critics noted that while the premise was intriguing, the execution at times lacked coherence and failed to fully capitalize on the story’s potential. Despite this, the film has garnered a following for its unique take on technology-driven horror.
Streaming Availability
For viewers in the United States, “Pulse” is available for streaming on several platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase in both SD and HD options.
- Apple TV: Users can rent or buy the film through the Apple TV app.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The movie can be rented or purchased and streamed on various devices.
- Vudu: Offers rental and purchase options, with the ability to watch in HDX.
Conclusion
“Pulse” is a thought-provoking horror film that explores the dark side of technology and its potential to connect us to the unknown. Kristen Bell’s strong performance, combined with Jim Sonzero’s atmospheric direction, creates an eerie and unsettling experience. While the film received mixed reviews, its unique premise and thematic depth make it a noteworthy entry in the horror genre.
The movie’s availability on various streaming platforms ensures that viewers can easily access and experience this chilling tale. Whether you’re a fan of supernatural horror, interested in technology-themed narratives, or looking for a film that blends psychological and traditional horror elements, “Pulse” offers a compelling and haunting journey into the unknown.
In summary, “Pulse” stands out for its exploration of technology’s darker aspects and its impact on human connection. With strong performances and a distinctive visual style, the film provides an engaging and eerie viewing experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
