The Advent Calendar (2021) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The Advent Calendar (2021) is a unique and chilling horror film directed by Patrick Ridremont. Set in the lead-up to Christmas, the film follows the story of a young woman who receives a mysterious advent calendar with dark and deadly consequences. This French-language horror film has gained attention for its intriguing blend of holiday cheer and supernatural horror, offering a fresh take on the genre with a festive twist.
In this review, we’ll explore what makes The Advent Calendar a standout horror film and provide information on where you can stream, rent, or purchase the movie online.
Plot Overview
The Advent Calendar revolves around Eva (Eugénie Derouand), a woman who is confined to a wheelchair following a tragic accident. Her friend Sophie (Clémentine Poidatz) gifts her a vintage advent calendar as a Christmas present. However, this is no ordinary calendar—it is imbued with dark magic and has a sinister history.
As Eva begins to open the doors of the calendar, she discovers that each door reveals a new, horrifying challenge that brings her closer to a nightmarish fate. The calendar’s ominous secrets and the deadly events that follow force Eva to confront her fears and unravel the mystery behind the cursed calendar before it’s too late.
Film Analysis
The Advent Calendar offers a compelling mix of holiday tradition and horror. Patrick Ridremont’s direction creates a suspenseful atmosphere, blending the festive spirit of Christmas with eerie and unsettling elements. The film’s unique premise—a cursed advent calendar—provides a fresh twist on the horror genre, combining the anticipation of a holiday countdown with terrifying consequences.
Eugénie Derouand’s performance as Eva is central to the film’s emotional depth. Her portrayal of a woman struggling with physical limitations and the psychological trauma of the calendar’s curse is both nuanced and engaging. Derouand’s ability to convey fear and vulnerability adds to the film’s tension and horror.
The film’s atmosphere is enhanced by its visual style and use of lighting. The contrast between the warm, festive setting of Christmas and the dark, ominous elements of the horror creates a striking and unsettling effect. The cinematography effectively captures the mood of each scene, contributing to the overall sense of dread.
The Advent Calendar also excels in its use of suspense and surprises. The unfolding mystery of the calendar’s curse is revealed gradually, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The film’s plot twists and turns are well-executed, making for an engaging and unpredictable horror experience.
The film’s score and sound design further enhance the tension, with a haunting soundtrack that complements the chilling atmosphere. The combination of music and sound effects heightens the sense of dread and foreboding, immersing viewers in the horror experience.
Where to Watch The Advent Calendar Online in the U.S.
If you’re interested in watching The Advent Calendar, here are some options for streaming, renting, or purchasing the film online:
Streaming Services
- Shudder
The Advent Calendar is available for streaming on Shudder, a service specializing in horror films and thrillers. Shudder offers a subscription plan starting at $5.99/month or $56.99/year, providing access to a wide range of horror films and series. Shudder is an ideal platform for horror enthusiasts looking for both mainstream and niche titles. - AMC+
The film is also available on AMC+, which includes content from AMC’s networks as well as Shudder. AMC+ subscriptions start at $8.99/month and offer a diverse selection of horror and thriller films.
Rental & Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video
The Advent Calendar can be rented on Amazon Prime Video for $4.99 or purchased for $12.99. Amazon provides a convenient viewing experience on various devices, including smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones. - Apple iTunes
The film is available for rental on iTunes for $4.99 or for purchase at $12.99. iTunes offers high-definition streaming and is accessible on iOS devices and through Apple TV. - Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play Movies & TV offers The Advent Calendar for rent at $4.99 and for purchase at $12.99. The platform supports streaming on Android devices and web browsers linked to your Google account. - Vudu
Vudu allows viewers to rent The Advent Calendar for $4.99 or purchase it for $12.99. Vudu provides a range of streaming options on various devices, including smart TVs and mobile devices. - YouTube Movies
The film is available for rent on YouTube Movies for $4.99 and for purchase at $12.99. YouTube’s platform supports streaming on any device with access to YouTube.
Other Streaming Services
Currently, The Advent Calendar is not available on Netflix or Disney+, but it can be found on Shudder, AMC+, and various rental and purchase platforms.
Conclusion: Why The Advent Calendar is a Must-Watch for Horror Fans
The Advent Calendar offers a unique and suspenseful take on the horror genre, combining the festive atmosphere of Christmas with a dark and sinister storyline. Patrick Ridremont’s direction, along with strong performances from Eugénie Derouand and the film’s effective use of suspense and atmosphere, make it a standout entry in the holiday horror subgenre.
The film’s fresh premise and engaging plot twists provide an entertaining and chilling experience for viewers. With its availability on Shudder and other streaming, rental, and purchase platforms, The Advent Calendar is easily accessible for those looking to add a touch of horror to their holiday season.
Watch The Advent Calendar today and experience a chilling and original horror tale with a festive twist.
