Unfriended: Dark Web (2018)

Unfriended: Dark Web (2018) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online

“Unfriended: Dark Web” (2018) is the stand-alone sequel to the 2014 film Unfriended. Directed by Stephen Susco, the film delves into the dark side of the internet, creating an atmosphere of dread and tension by using a similar real-time, screen-based storytelling technique. The film is a nerve-racking tech-horror experience that explores the consequences of stumbling upon the dangerous, hidden corners of the internet.

In this review, we’ll explore the plot, the film’s reception, and where you can stream or purchase Unfriended: Dark Web online in the United States.

Plot Summary: A Chilling Exploration of the Dark Web

The movie follows Matias (Colin Woodell), a young man who finds a mysterious laptop in a lost-and-found box at a local cyber café. Excited about his “new” computer, Matias begins exploring it during a video chat session with his friends. He discovers that the previous owner was heavily involved in the dark web, where sinister activities—including human trafficking, murder, and other illegal acts—are commonplace.

As Matias digs deeper into the contents of the laptop, he uncovers videos of disturbing crimes, drawing the attention of a powerful group of cybercriminals known as “The Circle.” Soon, the group’s members begin tracking and threatening him and his friends, putting them in grave danger.

The film takes place entirely through Matias’ computer screen, giving viewers a voyeuristic experience as the group of friends navigates a terrifying situation in real-time. Tension mounts as the group realizes that their every move is being watched and manipulated, and the film hurtles toward a dark, fatalistic conclusion.

Critical Reception: A Darker, More Grounded Horror

Unlike its predecessor, Unfriended: Dark Web drops the supernatural element in favor of a more grounded, tech-centric horror plot. The film received mixed to positive reviews, with praise for its suspenseful, anxiety-inducing atmosphere but some criticism for its reliance on screen-based storytelling, which some viewers found limiting.

The Positives

• Innovative Screen-Based Format: Like the first film, Unfriended: Dark Web unfolds entirely on a computer screen, mimicking the way people interact with technology in real life. This format adds a level of immersion and realism that makes the film’s events feel personal and immediate. It taps into modern fears about privacy, hacking, and the dangers of the internet.
• Tension and Atmosphere: The movie’s slow-burn tension and growing sense of paranoia keep the audience on edge. As Matias and his friends attempt to figure out how to escape their cyber pursuers, the pacing accelerates, and the stakes become increasingly terrifying.
• Realism and Dark Themes: Unlike many horror films that rely on supernatural forces, Unfriended: Dark Web grounds its horror in real-life fears about the internet and the dark web. The anonymity of the online world, the ease with which one’s privacy can be invaded, and the horrifying reality of cybercriminal activity are all key themes that resonate with a tech-savvy audience.
• Multiple Endings: The movie features two different endings depending on where and how you watch it. This unique twist adds to the film’s unpredictability and gives viewers different perspectives on how things could end for Matias and his friends.

The Negatives

• One-Dimensional Characters: While the film successfully builds suspense, the characters feel underdeveloped. They mostly serve as pawns in the larger plot rather than fully fleshed-out individuals, which can make it difficult for audiences to form emotional connections with them.
• Repetitive Format: Although the screen-based format is innovative, it can feel restrictive and monotonous over the course of the film. Some viewers might find that it limits the film’s ability to create dynamic, visually engaging scenes compared to more traditional horror filmmaking techniques.
• Bleak Tone: Unfriended: Dark Web is unrelentingly dark, which might turn off viewers looking for a more balanced horror experience. Its grim themes and disturbing content, while effective, can leave audiences feeling unsettled and hopeless by the end.

Streaming Unfriended: Dark Web (2018): Where to Watch Online in America

If you’re ready to dive into the horrifying world of Unfriended: Dark Web, you have several options to stream or purchase the film online in the U.S.

Subscription-Based Streaming Services

1. Peacock – As part of Peacock’s streaming library, Unfriended: Dark Web is available for viewing with a subscription. Peacock offers both free and premium tiers, but access to this film requires the premium version.
2. Netflix – At various points, Unfriended: Dark Web has been available on Netflix. However, its availability may change based on region and licensing agreements, so checking the current catalog is recommended.

Rent or Purchase Online

For those who prefer to rent or buy the movie, it is available on a variety of digital platforms:

1. Amazon Prime Video – You can rent Unfriended: Dark Web for $3.99 or purchase it for $14.99 in HD. It’s available on multiple devices, including Amazon Fire TV, smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
2. Apple TV/iTunes – Rent the film for $3.99 or buy it for $14.99, with HD options available for better quality viewing.
3. Google Play Movies – The movie is available to rent at $3.99 or buy at $14.99, compatible with most devices and web browsers.
4. Vudu – On Vudu, Unfriended: Dark Web is offered for rent at $3.99 or purchase at $14.99, with HD options for streaming on various devices like Roku and gaming consoles.
5. YouTube Movies – You can rent or buy the film at the same price as other platforms, with rental starting at $3.99 and purchase at $14.99 in HD.

Physical Media

If you’re a collector, Unfriended: Dark Web is available on Blu-ray and DVD. You can purchase it through online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. Physical copies often come with additional features like deleted scenes and commentary.

Why Unfriended: Dark Web Is a Must-Watch for Tech-Horror Fans

Unfriended: Dark Web taps into the growing subgenre of tech-horror, exploring the dangers lurking in the dark corners of the internet. For those who enjoy horror films that reflect modern-day fears about privacy, surveillance, and the anonymity of the digital world, this film delivers a unique and chilling experience. Its real-time, screen-based format makes it stand out in the horror genre, creating a sense of urgency and immersion that other films struggle to achieve.

While it may not have the emotional depth or character development of traditional horror films, Unfriended: Dark Web excels in building tension and crafting a narrative that reflects contemporary fears about technology. The film’s grounded approach to horror, combined with its fast-paced, nerve-wracking plot, makes it a worthy watch for fans of suspenseful, tech-driven thrillers.

Conclusion: A Terrifying Glimpse Into the Dark Side of the Internet

Unfriended: Dark Web (2018) offers a harrowing look at the consequences of crossing paths with the hidden, malevolent forces of the internet. While the characters may be a little thin, the film’s innovative format, relentless tension, and dark themes make it a standout in the tech-horror genre.

If you’re a fan of intense, thought-provoking horror and want a film that feels relevant to our digital age, Unfriended: Dark Web is a gripping experience that will leave you questioning just how safe you really are online.

With multiple streaming and purchase options available, you can easily access this modern horror thriller and immerse yourself in its chilling, screen-based world.