The Unborn (2009) Movie Review
A Supernatural Thriller with Mixed Results
The Unborn (2009) is a supernatural horror film directed by David S. Goyer, known for his work on the Blade and Dark Knight series. The film stars Odette Annable, Gary Oldman, Cam Gigandet, and Jane Alexander. While it presents an intriguing premise involving demonic possession and supernatural forces, the film’s execution is uneven, resulting in a mixed reception from audiences and critics.
Plot Summary
The film follows Casey Beldon (Odette Annable), a young woman who begins to experience disturbing visions and nightmares after the tragic death of her mother. As these supernatural occurrences intensify, Casey discovers a connection to her family’s past and the presence of a demonic entity known as a Dybbuk, an evil spirit in Jewish folklore.
Casey’s investigation into the origins of this malevolent force leads her to uncover dark secrets about her family and their involvement with the supernatural. The Dybbuk, seeking to possess her, intensifies its efforts, resulting in a series of harrowing events that put Casey’s life and sanity at risk. With the help of a priest, Father Joseph (Gary Oldman), Casey must confront the malevolent entity and find a way to stop it before it consumes her completely.
Performance and Direction
Odette Annable delivers a competent performance as Casey, capturing the character’s fear and desperation. Annable’s portrayal is one of the film’s stronger aspects, providing a solid emotional anchor for the story. However, her performance is at times undermined by the film’s uneven pacing and script.
Gary Oldman plays Father Joseph, a role that adds gravitas to the film. Oldman’s performance is one of the highlights, bringing depth and authority to the character. His involvement in the film adds a touch of credibility and seriousness, though his role is somewhat underutilized given his talent.
Cam Gigandet and Jane Alexander offer supportive performances, with Gigandet playing Casey’s love interest and Alexander portraying her grandmother. Both actors contribute to the film’s character dynamics, though their roles are not as central to the narrative as Annable and Oldman.
Director David S. Goyer brings his experience in the genre to the film, creating a sense of atmosphere and tension. However, the film’s execution suffers from pacing issues and a reliance on conventional horror tropes. While Goyer’s direction includes some effective scares and atmospheric moments, the film’s overall impact is diminished by its reliance on familiar genre elements.
Cinematography and Special Effects
The cinematography by Dante Spinotti is effective in creating a creepy and unsettling atmosphere. The film’s visual style complements its supernatural themes, with dark, shadowy settings and dramatic lighting enhancing the sense of dread.
Special effects and makeup are used to create the film’s horror elements, including the appearance of the Dybbuk and various supernatural occurrences. While the effects are generally well-executed, they occasionally feel overused, detracting from the film’s ability to create sustained suspense.
Themes and Messages
The Unborn explores themes of demonic possession, familial trauma, and the struggle between good and evil. The film delves into the concept of inherited curses and the impact of past actions on the present. The Dybbuk serves as a manifestation of these themes, embodying the idea of a malevolent force that seeks to exploit and destroy.
The film also touches on themes of faith and redemption, particularly through Father Joseph’s character, who represents the struggle to confront and overcome evil. The juxtaposition of supernatural horror with religious elements adds depth to the film’s narrative, though it is not fully explored.
Critical Reception
The Unborn received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised the film’s atmosphere and the performances of Odette Annable and Gary Oldman, others criticized it for its reliance on familiar horror tropes and lack of originality. The film’s pacing and script were also noted as weaknesses, impacting its overall effectiveness as a horror thriller.
Streaming Availability
For viewers in America, The Unborn 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.
- Hulu: Not currently available.
Conclusion
The Unborn (2009) offers a supernatural horror experience with a compelling premise and strong performances from Odette Annable and Gary Oldman. While the film succeeds in creating a chilling atmosphere and features some effective scares, it ultimately falls short due to its reliance on familiar genre conventions and uneven pacing.
For fans of supernatural horror looking for a film with a mix of traditional and modern elements, The Unborn provides a serviceable, if not exceptional, option. It is available on various streaming platforms, making it accessible for those interested in exploring its blend of horror and supernatural themes.
