The Wailing (2024) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The Wailing (El llanto) is an eerie and psychological horror film that takes viewers on a journey through the lives of three women haunted by an invisible evil force. Directed by Pedro Martín-Calero, and co-written with Isabel Peña, this Spanish-Argentinian production stands out not only for its chilling narrative but also for its exploration of themes like trauma, generational violence, and the subtle horror of not being believed. This review will delve into the movie’s plot, production, and possible streaming availability in the U.S.
Plot Overview
The Wailing is an atmospheric horror film that intertwines the lives of three women, each from different generations and locations—Spain and Argentina. The film centers around Andrea, a young university student dealing with an obsessive spiral after sensing an eerie presence that no one else can see or comprehend. Twenty years earlier, Marie, living 10,000 kilometers away in La Plata, Argentina, encountered the same terrifying presence, with only her friend Camila being able to understand her plight.
Throughout the film, these women are connected by the same horrifying sound—a wailing that follows them wherever they go. The entity that haunts them is elusive, felt only through sensations, strange atmospheres, and an overwhelming feeling of dread. The wailing they hear becomes the film’s unsettling signature, symbolizing the deep-seated violence and trauma that these women, and women in general, face in society.
Artistic Vision and Themes
What sets The Wailing apart from conventional horror films is its focus on real-world themes, particularly gendered violence, and its implications. Martín-Calero and Peña expertly weave a story that not only terrifies but also speaks to the societal issue of how victims, particularly women, are often disbelieved, dismissed, and left to grapple with their trauma in silence.
The movie is an outstanding example of feminist horror. The wailing sound that plagues these women symbolizes the generational pain and violence passed down through time. The film doesn’t shy away from the madness and isolation that its characters experience, offering a haunting allegory for the way violence perpetuates itself across generations.
By blending these heavy themes with elements of horror, The Wailing becomes a deeply poetic narrative about the invisibility of trauma, the unseen horrors women endure, and how society systematically fails to recognize these struggles. The decision to tell this story from a horror-based perspective adds depth to the subject matter, making the film both emotionally and psychologically disturbing.
Cinematic Style and Performances
Pedro Martín-Calero, known for his strong visual style, doesn’t disappoint in The Wailing. The film is beautifully shot, using light, shadow, and unsettling atmospheres to evoke a sense of impending doom. The horror in The Wailing is less about jump scares and more about lingering, existential dread, which builds throughout the film as the characters become increasingly consumed by the evil force.
The performances in The Wailing are exceptional, particularly from the film’s lead, Ester Expósito, who plays Andrea. Best known for her role in Netflix’s Elite, Expósito brings a raw vulnerability to her character. Her portrayal of a young woman grappling with something no one else believes feels authentic and heartbreaking. Malena Villa (Camila) and Mathilde Ollivier (Marie) also deliver compelling performances, anchoring the movie’s emotional and psychological core.
Streaming Availability in the U.S.
As of October 2024, The Wailing is not yet available for streaming on popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime in the U.S. However, it was presented at the prestigious San Sebastián Film Festival, generating a buzz that suggests it will soon find a home on streaming services.
Given the film’s backing by major companies like Prime Video and its distribution by Universal Pictures International Spain, there is a high likelihood that The Wailing will eventually be available for streaming in the U.S. on platforms like Amazon Prime or even Netflix, which has a track record of showcasing international horror films. Additionally, services like HBO Max or Shudder, known for their horror-centric content, could also pick up this unique film for streaming.
For now, if you’re eager to watch The Wailing, your best bet is to keep an eye on platforms such as Amazon Prime, as it is one of the film’s production partners. Another good option is checking JustWatch, a platform that tracks streaming availability across multiple services. For updates, you can visit JustWatch here to stay informed about when and where The Wailing becomes available for rent or streaming.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The Wailing is a harrowing and visually stunning horror film that lingers in the mind long after its final scene. By tackling themes of trauma, violence, and invisibility, it sets itself apart from more traditional horror films, offering a thought-provoking narrative that speaks to our deepest fears. The direction, performances, and script all contribute to a film that feels both intimate and expansive in its scope.
If you’re a fan of slow-burn horror that engages both the mind and emotions, The Wailing is a must-watch. Keep an eye on popular streaming platforms for its release in the coming months, as this is one film you won’t want to miss.
Are you ready to dive into the chilling world of The Wailing? Stay updated on its streaming release by visiting JustWatch, and make sure to mark your calendar for its U.S. premiere. Don’t miss out on one of 2024’s most thought-provoking horror films!
