Get Away (2024) Movie Review: A Darkly Comedic Horror You Shouldn’t Miss
“Get Away” (2024), directed by Steffen Haars and written by Nick Frost, is a dark comedy horror that blends elements of folk horror and absurdist satire. The film follows the Smith family as they embark on a vacation to the remote Swedish island of Svälta, only to uncover a chilling connection between the island’s dark history and their own heritage. Starring Nick Frost, Aisling Bea, Maisie Ayres, and Sebastian Croft, the movie explores themes of cultural insensitivity, colonial guilt, and family dysfunction, all wrapped in an unsettling yet hilarious package.
A Deep Dive Into the Plot
Initially, the Smith family’s vacation seems harmless. Richard (Nick Frost) and his wife Susan (Aisling Bea) bring their two children, Sam (Sebastian Croft) and Jessie (Maisie Ayres), to Svälta to observe the annual “Karantan” festival. However, their arrival is met with hostility from the locals, who harbor a deep resentment toward outsiders due to the island’s dark past. The festival, commemorating a period of starvation and cannibalism, becomes the backdrop for a series of increasingly bizarre and horrifying events.
The first act of the film focuses on the cultural clash between the Smiths and the islanders, with humor derived from the family’s oblivious privilege. This builds to a shocking twist that flips the tone, leading to a bloody and chaotic finale. The climactic scenes feature over-the-top violence and dark humor, with standout moments set to tracks like Iron Maiden’s “Run to the Hills” and Toto Coelo’s “I Eat Cannibals.”
What Makes Get Away Stand Out?
1. Genre-Blending Mastery
“Get Away” expertly combines folk horror tropes reminiscent of The Wicker Man and Midsommar with absurd comedy. The tonal shifts from light-hearted satire to grotesque horror are well-executed, keeping audiences engaged and on edge.
2. Clever Social Commentary
The film satirizes post-Brexit tourism and Western entitlement, drawing parallels between the Smiths’ invasive behavior and colonial attitudes. This commentary adds depth to the otherwise chaotic narrative, making the movie more than just a horror-comedy.
3. Strong Performances
Nick Frost shines as the hapless patriarch, balancing comedic timing with moments of genuine terror. Aisling Bea and the younger cast members also deliver performances that bring authenticity to their dysfunctional family dynamic.
4. A Killer Soundtrack
The soundtrack enhances the movie’s comedic and horrific elements, with well-placed tracks that elevate key scenes.
Where to Watch Get Away Online
As of now, Get Away is not yet available on streaming platforms or digital rental services. However, based on the distribution history of similar films, here’s a prediction of where it might land:
- Streaming Services: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or Shudder are likely candidates due to their interest in indie horror-comedies.
- Digital Rental/Purchase: Platforms like iTunes, Google Play, or Vudu might offer the movie for rent or purchase once its theatrical run concludes.
For the latest updates on availability, visit JustWatch, which tracks streaming and rental options.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Unique Concept: The blending of folk horror and satire is refreshingly original.
- Engaging Themes: The film explores complex social issues without feeling preachy.
- Memorable Final Act: The gore and humor in the finale leave a lasting impression.
Weaknesses:
- Pacing Issues: The first hour drags slightly as it builds to the twist.
- Underdeveloped Subplots: Some characters and cultural elements of Svälta could have been explored more thoroughly.
Final Thoughts
Get Away is not your average horror film. It’s a clever, albeit flawed, dark comedy that offers sharp social commentary alongside blood-soaked chaos. While the pacing and tonal inconsistencies might deter some viewers, the movie’s originality and humor make it a worthwhile watch.
If you’re a fan of Midsommar or Shaun of the Dead, this film is a must-see. Keep an eye out for its digital release or streaming debut to join the Smith family’s unforgettable—and horrifying—vacation.
Excited to watch Get Away? Bookmark its page on JustWatch to stay updated on streaming availability. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind horror-comedy—whether it’s in theaters or your living room, it’s worth the trip!
