The Dark and the Wicked (2020) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Dark and the Wicked, directed by Bryan Bertino, is a chilling horror film that explores themes of grief, isolation, and the supernatural. Released in 2020, this critically acclaimed film has garnered attention for its haunting atmosphere and unsettling narrative. With a focus on psychological horror rather than jump scares, The Dark and the Wicked offers a unique experience for fans of the genre.
In this review, we will delve into the film’s plot, character dynamics, critical reception, and where to watch The Dark and the Wicked online.
Plot Overview of The Dark and the Wicked (2020)
Set on a secluded farm, the story follows Louise (Marin Ireland) and Michael (Michael Abbott Jr.), two siblings who return home to care for their ailing father, who is suffering from a terminal illness. As they grapple with their father’s deteriorating health, they begin to experience a series of disturbing occurrences that suggest a malevolent presence is haunting their home.
As Louise and Michael delve deeper into the sinister events, they must confront their own fears and the darkness that looms over their family. The film’s tension builds steadily, leading to a harrowing climax that explores the fragility of the human psyche when faced with death and despair.
Character Dynamics and Performances
The Dark and the Wicked features a strong cast that delivers compelling performances:
- Louise (Marin Ireland): Ireland’s portrayal of Louise is both vulnerable and powerful, capturing the character’s emotional turmoil as she confronts her family’s tragic situation. Her performance anchors the film, making the horror feel deeply personal.
- Michael (Michael Abbott Jr.): Abbott delivers a solid performance as Michael, embodying the struggles of a son caught between familial duty and his own mental anguish. His character adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the impact of grief on relationships.
- Supporting Cast: The film also features notable performances from Julie Oliver-Touchstone and Tom Nowicki, who enhance the eerie atmosphere and contribute to the unsettling tone of the film.
Visuals and Direction
Bryan Bertino’s direction masterfully creates a sense of dread that permeates the film. The cinematography effectively captures the bleakness of the rural setting, using shadows and lighting to heighten the sense of isolation. The pacing is deliberate, allowing tension to build gradually, culminating in terrifying moments that leave a lasting impact.
Critical Reception
The Dark and the Wicked received positive reviews from critics, who praised its atmospheric tension, strong performances, and unique approach to horror. The film’s slow-burn style and emphasis on psychological horror set it apart from typical genre fare. Many viewers found it to be a haunting exploration of grief and the supernatural, making it a standout entry in contemporary horror.
Where to Watch The Dark and the Wicked (2020) Online
If you’re interested in watching The Dark and the Wicked, here are the platforms where the movie is available for streaming, rental, or purchase in the U.S.:
1. Amazon Prime Video (Rental/Purchase)
- Availability: United States and internationally.
- Pricing: Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $12.99.
- Quality: Available in HD.
You can rent or buy The Dark and the Wicked on Amazon Prime Video.
2. iTunes/Apple TV (Rental/Purchase)
- Availability: United States, Canada, and other regions.
- Pricing: Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $12.99.
- Quality: HD available.
The film is available for rent or purchase through iTunes or Apple TV.
3. Google Play Movies (Rental/Purchase)
- Availability: United States and internationally.
- Pricing: Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $9.99.
- Quality: HD available.
Google Play Movies offers The Dark and the Wicked for rental and purchase options.
4. Vudu (Rental/Purchase)
- Availability: United States.
- Pricing: Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $12.99.
- Quality: Available in HD.
Vudu also provides the film for rental and purchase.
5. Shudder (Subscription)
- Availability: United States and internationally.
- Pricing: Requires a Shudder subscription.
- Quality: Available in HD.
The Dark and the Wicked is available for streaming on Shudder, a platform dedicated to horror films.
Why The Dark and the Wicked Is Worth Watching
The Dark and the Wicked is a standout film for those who appreciate atmospheric horror that relies on psychological tension rather than jump scares. The film’s exploration of grief and family dynamics, combined with strong performances and a haunting atmosphere, makes it a compelling watch. Its deliberate pacing allows for a gradual buildup of dread, ensuring that viewers remain engaged throughout.
Conclusion: Is The Dark and the Wicked Worth Watching?
If you’re a fan of horror films that delve into the complexities of the human experience, The Dark and the Wicked (2020) is definitely worth a watch. With its gripping narrative, powerful performances, and chilling atmosphere, the film offers a haunting exploration of grief and the supernatural. Available for rental and purchase on various platforms, as well as on Shudder, it’s an excellent choice for a night of unsettling entertainment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is The Dark and the Wicked available on Netflix?
A: As of now, The Dark and the Wicked is not available on Netflix but can be streamed on Shudder and rented or purchased on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
Q: Can I watch The Dark and the Wicked for free?
A: The film is not available for free streaming; a rental or purchase is required through various platforms.
Q: Is The Dark and the Wicked suitable for children?
A: The Dark and the Wicked is rated R for its disturbing images and content. Viewer discretion is advised, and it may not be suitable for younger audiences.
