The Bye Bye Man (2017) Movie Review
“The Bye Bye Man,” directed by Stacy Title and released in 2017, is a supernatural horror film that delves into the terror of an ancient evil entity whose name alone can invoke fear and madness. Starring Douglas Smith, Lucien Laviscount, and Cressida Bonas, the film attempts to explore the psychological and supernatural horrors associated with forbidden knowledge.
Plot Summary
The film centers on three college students, Elliot (Douglas Smith), John (Lucien Laviscount), and Sasha (Cressida Bonas), who move into an off-campus house together. Their lives take a dark turn when they discover a nightstand with strange scribbles and a hidden drawer containing the phrase “The Bye Bye Man.” Unwittingly, they release the curse of the Bye Bye Man, a malevolent figure who preys on anyone who knows his name or thinks about him.
As the entity’s influence grows, the friends experience terrifying hallucinations and violent events. Elliot, determined to uncover the truth, learns about the Bye Bye Man’s history and its connection to a series of murders. The entity feeds on fear and compels its victims to commit horrific acts.
With the help of a determined librarian (Faye Dunaway) and a skeptical detective (Carrie-Anne Moss), Elliot races against time to stop the Bye Bye Man’s curse from spreading and save himself and his friends from a gruesome fate.
Performances
Douglas Smith delivers a compelling performance as Elliot, portraying the character’s descent into paranoia and fear convincingly. Smith captures the desperation and determination of someone grappling with an incomprehensible evil.
Lucien Laviscount and Cressida Bonas provide solid supporting performances as John and Sasha. Laviscount’s portrayal of the confident and rational John contrasts well with Bonas’s depiction of the more vulnerable and haunted Sasha. The chemistry between the three leads adds depth to their relationships and enhances the tension.
Faye Dunaway and Carrie-Anne Moss lend their experience and gravitas to their roles, providing moments of grounded realism amidst the supernatural chaos. Dunaway’s portrayal of the librarian is particularly memorable, adding a touch of wisdom and mystery to the narrative.
Direction and Style
Stacy Title’s direction in “The Bye Bye Man” creates a foreboding and unsettling atmosphere. The film effectively uses dim lighting, eerie sound design, and disorienting visuals to build suspense and convey the pervasive sense of dread associated with the Bye Bye Man’s presence.
The pacing of the film is generally steady, with a gradual escalation of tension and horror. However, some moments feel rushed, and certain plot points could benefit from more exploration. Despite these pacing issues, Title manages to maintain a sense of unease throughout the film.
Themes
“The Bye Bye Man” explores themes of fear, forbidden knowledge, and the power of belief. The film examines how the mere act of acknowledging the entity’s existence can lead to one’s downfall. This theme of self-fulfilling prophecy is central to the horror, as characters’ attempts to resist the Bye Bye Man only draw them deeper into his influence.
The film also touches on themes of friendship, trust, and the psychological impact of fear. The characters’ relationships are tested as they struggle to differentiate between reality and hallucination, ultimately highlighting the isolating and destructive nature of the curse.
Streaming Services and Availability
As of 2024, “The Bye Bye Man” is available for streaming on various platforms. In the United States, you can watch the film on:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple TV: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rent or purchase.
These options provide viewers with convenient access to the film, allowing them to experience the chilling horror from the comfort of their homes.
Conclusion
“The Bye Bye Man” is a supernatural horror film that delves into the psychological and paranormal terrors associated with an ancient evil entity. While the film has its flaws, including some pacing issues and underdeveloped plot points, it manages to create a sense of dread and unease through its atmosphere and performances.
For fans of supernatural horror that explores the power of belief and the consequences of forbidden knowledge, “The Bye Bye Man” offers a chilling and unsettling experience. Its availability on popular streaming services ensures easy access for viewers seeking a creepy and suspenseful film.
