The New Daughter (2009) Movie Review
A Chilling Tale of Fatherhood and Ancient Evil
The New Daughter (2009) is a supernatural horror film that blends family drama with ancient folklore. Directed by Luiso Berdejo and starring Kevin Costner, Ivana Baquero, and Samantha Mathis, the movie explores themes of parenthood, identity, and the unknowable forces lurking beneath the surface of our everyday lives.
Plot Summary
The story follows John James (Kevin Costner), a recently divorced father who moves to a remote farmhouse in South Carolina with his two children, Louisa (Ivana Baquero) and Sam (Gattlin Griffith), in search of a fresh start. The new beginning quickly turns ominous when Louisa becomes increasingly drawn to an ancient burial mound near their home. As her behavior grows more erratic and disturbing, John must uncover the dark history of their new property and confront an ancient evil that threatens to consume his daughter.
Performance and Direction
Kevin Costner delivers a strong performance as John James, portraying a father struggling to protect his children while grappling with his own feelings of inadequacy and fear. Costner’s portrayal is grounded and relatable, making the character’s journey all the more compelling. Ivana Baquero, known for her role in Pan’s Labyrinth, is captivating as Louisa. Her transformation from a typical teenage girl to a vessel of malevolent forces is both subtle and chilling. Samantha Mathis provides solid support as Cassandra Parker, a schoolteacher who becomes entangled in the mystery surrounding Louisa.
Director Luiso Berdejo effectively creates a tense and eerie atmosphere, utilizing the isolated setting and the enigmatic burial mound to build a sense of foreboding. Berdejo’s direction balances moments of quiet dread with sudden, shocking scares, keeping the audience on edge throughout the film.
Cinematography and Sound
The cinematography by Checco Varese enhances the film’s suspenseful mood. The use of natural lighting and shadow plays a significant role in creating an unsettling ambiance, while the lush, rural landscape provides a stark contrast to the dark events unfolding. The eerie and atmospheric score by Javier Navarrete complements the film’s visuals, heightening the sense of unease and impending doom.
Themes and Messages
The New Daughter explores themes of fatherhood, identity, and the clash between modern life and ancient, unknowable forces. The film delves into the fears and responsibilities of being a parent, particularly in the face of inexplicable and supernatural threats. It also touches on the idea of ancient evils lying dormant, waiting to be awakened by unsuspecting intruders.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, The New Daughter received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the film’s atmospheric tension, strong performances, and unique take on supernatural horror. Others criticized it for its slow pacing and lack of originality in certain aspects of its plot. Despite the mixed reception, the film has found an audience among fans of atmospheric and character-driven horror.
Streaming Availability
For viewers in America, The New Daughter is available for streaming on the following platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental or purchase.
- Apple TV: Available for rental or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rental or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rental or purchase.
Conclusion
The New Daughter is a horror film that stands out for its atmospheric tension and strong central performances, particularly by Kevin Costner and Ivana Baquero. While it may not reinvent the genre, it offers a compelling and eerie tale of a father’s desperate attempt to save his daughter from an ancient evil.
For those who appreciate horror films that emphasize mood and character development over constant scares, The New Daughter provides a chilling and engaging experience. Its exploration of fatherhood and ancient folklore adds depth to the supernatural horror, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre. The film is available on several streaming services, making it accessible for those looking to delve into its dark and haunting story.
