Beezel (2024) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
In the ever-evolving world of horror films, the genre continues to thrill and terrify audiences with fresh stories and unique perspectives. One such film that promises to deliver a spine-chilling experience is Beezel (2024), directed by Aaron Fradkin. Combining traditional horror elements with a dash of the macabre, Beezel brings a dark tale of an ancient, blind witch who preys on the inhabitants of a cursed New England home over the course of several decades. This review explores the movie’s core themes, narrative style, and its availability on streaming platforms.
Plot Summary
Set in a sprawling, haunted New England home, Beezel spans over six decades, each timeline revealing more about the evil forces lurking beneath the house’s floorboards. The film kicks off in 1966 and continues through 1987, 2003, and 2013, following the lives of several unfortunate inhabitants of the house. Their lives intersect with the malevolent presence of Beezel, a blind witch who feeds on the souls of the living. Each era adds another layer of terror as the film unfolds the mystery of this cursed abode.
The story begins with Rob, the first victim of the curse, who moves into the house with his family only to discover Beezel lurking in the basement. The witch’s terrifying hunger and the mystery of her origin loom large throughout the film, making each character’s fate increasingly more gruesome.
Old-School Horror with a Modern Twist
Beezel appeals to fans of traditional horror by embracing elements from classic haunted house films and creature features. While many modern horror films lean heavily into social commentary, Beezel focuses primarily on pure terror, gory jump scares, and the visceral fear of being trapped in a haunted house. It harkens back to the horror of yesteryears, with a narrative structure that is simple but effective, offering a thrilling ride rather than an exploration of deeper themes.
The film’s pacing is relentless. Clocking in at a lean 82 minutes, it wastes no time getting to the gory details. Each timeline serves as its own self-contained chapter, with horrific events building up from one era to the next. The practical effects are a highlight, giving the film a gritty, visceral feel, particularly when it comes to the grotesque design of Beezel herself. Crafted to resemble tree trunks, her appearance evokes a primal terror, enhanced by expert makeup and special effects.
Performances and Direction
The cast of Beezel delivers commendable performances, particularly Nicolas Robin, who plays Lucas, the estranged stepson who inherits the cursed house in the film’s latter half. His portrayal of a man slowly unraveling as he learns the dark secrets of his inheritance is compelling. Bob Gallagher, as Rob, also stands out with his chilling performance, portraying a man enslaved by the witch’s sinister influence.
Fradkin’s direction is sharp and focused, with a clear understanding of pacing in horror. His ability to create a sense of dread that permeates the entire film, while still giving the audience moments to breathe, is masterful. His previous work on films like Val has already established him as a rising talent in the horror genre, and Beezel only solidifies his reputation.
Where to Watch Beezel Online
As of 2024, Beezel is available on various streaming platforms. Below are the top services where you can stream or rent the movie:
- Amazon Prime Video: For those who prefer to rent or purchase movies, Beezel is available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. HD quality options are available, making it an excellent choice for those who want a high-quality viewing experience.
- Apple TV: Another option for rental and purchase, Beezel can also be found on Apple TV, providing easy access for viewers with Apple devices.
- Vudu: A popular platform for movie rentals, Vudu offers Beezel for both rental and purchase, with various format options including SD, HD, and UHD.
- Google Play: Available for rent or purchase, Beezel can be streamed directly on Google Play, giving users on Android devices and Chromecast another convenient option.
For those outside the US, be sure to check local streaming platforms for availability, as Beezel is expected to be distributed internationally through various services.
Final Thoughts
Beezel (2024) is a must-see for horror fans, especially those who appreciate a return to the roots of classic haunted house and witchcraft horror. The film expertly blends old-school horror elements with modern-day practical effects, creating a terrifying experience that stays with you long after the credits roll.
Though it may leave some questions about the origins of the blind witch unanswered, this only adds to the film’s allure, creating the potential for future sequels or prequels. For now, Beezel stands as a singular work of art, a horror film that embraces its genre with full force, providing enough scares, blood, and suspense to satisfy even the most hardened horror fans.