In a scary movie, nothing is more unnerving than the stretch of silence before the murderer emerges from the dark. In the drama, thriller film “A Quiet Place,” out in theaters now, perpetual silence is necessary to survive—an accidental noise could cost you your life.
John Krasinski and Emily Blunt play parents trying to protect their family after terrifying, otherworldly creatures take over humans. The aliens hunt with their acute sense of hearing, which makes ordinary living a near impossible feat.
Yet, this family makes it work: they loot stores, catch fish, school their children and spend each day trying to remain a normal family despite knowing that every second of the day, they are being hunted.
Everything hinges on the night in which Blunt must give birth and remain silent during it.
One of the main reasons I enjoyed this film is because its characters are likeable. Rarely do I see a horror movie and feel compelled to root for its characters, especially if they’re created to be shallow and unintelligent. Instead of relying on unwitting characters to propel its plot, the movie depicts people that are compelling and realistic. The parents have motivations and dreams that surpass merely staying alive-- they want to build a comfortable and happy life for their children.
Krasinski and his costar Blunt are married parents in real life, which explains why their chemistry shines in the film. Krasinski likens the movie to parenthood, and I think it’s because the story depicts a couple that is willing to go to any lengths for their children. I get the sense from the film that what the characters want more than anything is to be a happy family despite the danger that constantly surrounds them. Regardless if you’re a parent or not, I think everyone can relate to the desire to create happiness in a difficult environment.
“A Quiet Place” is a directorial breakthrough for Krasinski, who is most well known as playing goofy Jim on the comedy show “The Office.” Though not a fan of horror himself, Krasinski creates a nerve-wracking atmosphere that lasts the whole duration of the film.
The sound design is excellent-- each miniscule sound that you hear, whether it be a creaking floorboard or grains of sand shuffling on the ground, is designed to create fear and build suspense. The suspense keeps keeps you on the edge of your seat, and I felt so immersed in the movie that when I left the theater and walked out into the parking lot, I felt momentary pangs of shock at the abrupt sounds of slamming car doors and beeping off in the distance.
Even if you hate jump scares, the atmosphere of this movie makes everything worthwhile. Wherever the camera takes you, whether that be a cornfield or the woods or an abandoned town, encases you and doesn’t release you until the credits roll. Viewing the film on the big screen in theaters is a must if you want the most immersive experience.
Similar to movies like “The Babadook” and “Get Out,” the film blends horror and metaphor, making it thrilling and thought-provoking. It is a must see for those who love to be scared and even those that don’t.
Film Review: A Quiet Place
