Don’t Move (2024) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Netflix’s Don’t Move (2024) delivers an intriguing twist to the horror-thriller genre, placing its protagonist, Iris, in a nightmarish game of survival against a manipulative and sadistic killer. Directed by Adam Schindler and Brian Netto, this film explores the visceral terror of paralysis and the courage it takes to overcome grief. With high stakes and suspenseful moments, Don’t Move is bound to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Storyline Overview
In Don’t Move, Kelsey Asbille stars as Iris, a grieving mother who ventures into a remote forest, seeking solace or perhaps an escape from her sorrow. However, her life takes a horrific turn when she encounters Richard (played by Finn Wittrock), a seemingly friendly man who shares a story of personal loss, successfully distracting her from her despair. However, his kindness is a façade that hides a sinister intent. Iris soon finds herself injected with a paralytic drug by Richard, leaving her only 20 minutes before complete immobility sets in. Now, she must rely on her wits and limited mobility to escape his clutches and survive this twisted encounter.
Key Performances and Direction
The direction by Adam Schindler and Brian Netto amplifies the tension of the limited setting. Iris’s vulnerability and determination are palpable, and Asbille’s nuanced performance breathes life into a character who struggles with not only physical paralysis but also emotional trauma. Her silent expressions, darting eyes, and fleeting muscle twitches convey her inner strength and resilience, bringing viewers into her fight for survival.
Finn Wittrock’s portrayal of Richard is chilling. He plays the role with an unnerving charm, shifting between a kind façade and a menacing antagonist with ease. This transformation keeps viewers questioning his motives, adding a complex layer to the suspense.
Sam Raimi, known for genre-defining horror, serves as a producer on this film. His influence can be felt throughout Don’t Move, with the directors utilizing Raimi-esque suspense and thriller elements that make the film a unique entry in Netflix’s horror lineup.
Cinematography and Atmosphere
The cinematography by Zach Kuperstein is a standout, capturing the eerie beauty of the forested backdrop and enhancing the tension with well-composed shots. Aerial views of the secluded wilderness give the viewer a sense of Iris’s isolation, while close-ups intensify her helplessness as the drug takes hold. Kuperstein’s attention to detail creates an atmosphere of both dread and melancholy, grounding the film’s themes of loss and resilience.
Themes and Analysis
Don’t Move delves into the theme of grief and the paralyzing effect it has on one’s will to live. Iris’s journey from suicidal despair to fighting for survival is a powerful exploration of how trauma and hopelessness can be overcome by sheer resilience and the will to live.
Richard’s character, however, is less explored. While he’s effective as the movie’s villain, his motivations remain largely superficial. His character primarily serves to advance the plot rather than provide any profound insight into his psychopathic tendencies. Despite this, the film succeeds in creating a high-stakes scenario that allows the viewer to invest fully in Iris’s struggle.
Criticisms
While Don’t Move has received praise for its intense atmosphere and strong performances, there are certain areas where it falters. The film’s pacing, for example, sometimes feels uneven. Certain scenes, especially those involving a helpful stranger, could benefit from a more streamlined approach to keep the tension consistent. Additionally, some of the VFX sequences lack the polish expected in a thriller of this nature, slightly diminishing the immersive quality.
Despite these minor setbacks, Don’t Move stands out as a memorable thriller, balancing suspense with emotional depth.
Where to Watch Don’t Move (2024)
Don’t Move is currently available exclusively on Netflix for streaming. As of now, this movie can only be viewed by Netflix subscribers, offering horror fans a reason to revisit the streaming platform for a unique thriller experience.
For those who prefer renting or purchasing digital copies, Netflix has yet to make Don’t Move available on alternative platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple iTunes, or Google Play Movies. However, considering Netflix’s recent practice with other originals, there’s a chance it may be distributed to other platforms in the coming months.
Conclusion
Don’t Move (2024) is a compelling horror-thriller that offers a fresh take on the genre, featuring strong performances, a suspenseful storyline, and atmospheric cinematography. While the movie may have minor flaws, its ability to keep viewers on edge makes it a must-watch for thriller enthusiasts. With Sam Raimi’s production influence, Don’t Move honors horror traditions while exploring the dark depths of survival and resilience.
Ready for a night of spine-tingling suspense? Head to Netflix and watch Don’t Move to witness Iris’s thrilling fight for survival. If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers and survival horror, don’t miss this chilling Netflix original.
