Satanic (2016) Movie Review: A Lackluster Trip into Horror
“Satanic,” directed by Jeffrey G. Hunt and released in 2016, attempts to delve into the world of occult horror with a plot centered around a group of college friends who stumble into a dark and dangerous world. While the film aims to explore themes of evil and demonic influence, it ultimately falls short due to its clichéd storytelling and predictable plot twists. Here’s a closer look at what the film has to offer.
Plot Overview
The film follows a group of friends—Kat (Sarah Hyland), her boyfriend, and two of their friends—who travel to Los Angeles for a vacation. Their trip takes a dark turn when they decide to visit a notorious satanic ritual site known for its sinister reputation. As they delve into the occult, they encounter disturbing and supernatural occurrences that put their lives at risk.
The story unfolds as the friends become increasingly entangled in a series of events that lead them to question their sanity and their safety. The film mixes elements of supernatural horror with psychological tension, aiming to create a chilling atmosphere as the friends confront malevolent forces.
Character Dynamics and Performances
The cast includes Sarah Hyland as Kat, with supporting performances from actors like Justin Chon and other lesser-known actors. While Hyland brings a sense of earnestness to her role, the characters in “Satanic” are largely one-dimensional and fail to stand out as memorable or engaging.
The performances are competent but constrained by the film’s script, which provides limited depth or development for the characters. As a result, their reactions and interactions often feel generic and unconvincing. The lack of character development undermines the film’s ability to build emotional investment and tension, making it difficult for the audience to become fully immersed in the story.
Visual Style and Production Design
“Satanic” employs a standard visual style typical of many modern horror films. The cinematography includes dark and moody lighting, with an emphasis on creating a foreboding atmosphere. The film’s setting, including the ritual site and the urban environment, is designed to evoke a sense of unease and dread.
While the production design succeeds in creating a visually unsettling experience, the film’s reliance on jump scares and conventional horror tropes detracts from its overall impact. The lack of originality in the visual and thematic elements makes the film feel predictable and derivative.
Themes and Execution
The film attempts to explore themes of evil, occultism, and the consequences of meddling with dark forces. However, “Satanic” struggles to offer a fresh perspective or meaningful commentary on these themes. The narrative relies heavily on familiar horror clichés, such as haunted locations and demonic possessions, without providing new insights or innovative twists.
The execution of these themes is uneven, with the film’s attempts at psychological horror often overshadowed by its reliance on jump scares and formulaic plot devices. The lack of originality in the story and its resolution leaves the viewer feeling unsatisfied and unengaged.
Reception and Legacy
“Satanic” received generally negative reviews from critics and audiences. Common criticisms included its predictable plot, lackluster scares, and reliance on tired horror tropes. The film’s failure to deliver a compelling or original horror experience resulted in a largely forgettable addition to the genre.
Despite its shortcomings, “Satanic” may still appeal to fans of standard supernatural horror looking for a straightforward and uncomplicated film. However, those seeking a more innovative or thought-provoking horror experience are likely to be disappointed.
Streaming and Purchase Options in America
For those interested in watching “Satanic,” the film is available on various streaming platforms. As of 2024, you can stream it on Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. It is also available for rental or purchase on platforms like Google Play Movies, YouTube, and iTunes. These options provide flexibility for viewers to choose the most convenient way to watch the film, whether through a subscription service or a one-time rental/purchase.
Conclusion
“Satanic” (2016) is a horror film that struggles to differentiate itself from the multitude of supernatural thrillers. While it aims to explore themes of occultism and demonic influence, its reliance on predictable plot twists and conventional horror elements results in a lackluster viewing experience. The film’s competent performances and atmospheric visuals are overshadowed by its uninspired narrative and failure to offer anything new to the genre.
For those interested in a straightforward horror film, “Satanic” may provide some entertainment. However, viewers seeking a more original or impactful horror experience are likely to find it lacking. The film serves as a reminder of the challenges involved in creating a memorable and effective entry in the supernatural horror genre.
