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Horripilations Review of Don’t Breathe (2016)

Movie Review: Don’t Breathe (2016)

Synopsis

“Don’t Breathe” is a 2016 horror-thriller film directed by Fede Álvarez, well known for his previous remake of “Evil Dead.” The narrative revolves around three young thieves—Rocky (Jane Levy), Alex (Dylan Minnette), and Money (Daniel Zovatto)—who devise a plan to break into the home of a blind war veteran, Norman Nordstrom (Stephen Lang), living in a dilapidated part of Detroit. They believe the old man’s blindness makes him an easy target for their burglary scheme, especially since it’s rumoured he has a stash of cash hidden in his home, compensation from a lawsuit following the death of his daughter.

However, what starts as an easy heist soon spirals into a nightmare. Upon entering his home, the trio discovers that Norman is not the helpless victim they envisioned. He is surprisingly resourceful, possessing keen senses and an unexpected proficiency for defending himself. The tension escalates as they realise they are not just stealing from a blind man; they have unwittingly become prey in a deadly game. The film deftly explores themes of vulnerability, morality, and survival, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats with heart-pounding suspense and unpredictable twists.

Cast of Characters

  • Jane Levy as Rocky
  • Dylan Minnette as Alex
  • Daniel Zovatto as Money
  • Stephen Lang as Norman Nordstrom
  • Franciska Toroczkai as Young Norman’s Daughter
  • Robert E. O’Connor as Detective

Review

Fede Álvarez’s “Don’t Breathe” is a visceral exploration of fear, vulnerability, and the primal instincts that come alive under duress. From the outset, Álvarez establishes a richly oppressive atmosphere, utilising sound and sight to shape a uniquely claustrophobic space. The cinematography, helmed by Pedro Luque, melds tightly framed shots with lingering tension, transforming Norman’s home from a mere location into a character in its own right—a labyrinthine fortress that turns the tables on the unwelcome intruders.

The film’s premise is deceptively simple, drawing viewers into a world that starts off as a traditional heist but quickly morphs into a harrowing fight for survival. The first act of the film serves to establish the characters alongside their motives. Rocky, portrayed with a fiery determination by Jane Levy, is desperate to escape her mundane existence and provide a better life for her younger sister. Meanwhile, Alex and Money act as her accomplices—each motivated by varied reasons, with Alex often exhibiting a more cautious approach contrasted with Money’s brashness.

Stephen Lang’s portrayal of Norman Nordstrom is nothing short of remarkable. With a performance steeped in gravitas, Lang transforms Norman into a multi-faceted figure. At first glance, he represents the quintessential victim; however, as the film progresses, we uncover layers of complexity that force viewers to reevaluate their sympathies. Norman is not merely a blind man; he is someone who has endured profound loss, pushing him to a place of darkness where he protects his secrets at all costs. Lang’s physicality, combined with his commanding screen presence, creates a chilling antagonist who is as formidable as he is tragic.

The film’s sound design further enhances the tension, captivating the audience through minimalistic yet effective means. The absence of sound plays a pivotal role in the storytelling, particularly given Norman’s blindness—each subtle creak of the floorboards or whisper of the wind becomes amplified, heightening the sense of dread. The manner in which Álvarez utilises silence not only serves to underscore the horror elements but also evokes a visceral response through the audience’s shared sense of apprehension. The viewer is compelled to experience each tense moment viscerally, heightening the stakes as the chase unfolds within the confined space of the house.

As the plot thickens, the film ventures into uncomfortable territories that challenge the audience’s perceptions of morality. The characters’ moral compasses are tested as their desperation becomes palpable. While Rocky and her partners initially embody the archetype of youthful naivety, as the story unfolds, they become increasingly desperate, leading to choices that blur the lines between victim and aggressor. Here, Álvarez succeeds in crafting a narrative that probes the ethical dimensions of survival and the lengths to which one might go when cornered.

One of the most compelling aspects of “Don’t Breathe” is its deft handling of pacing. The film builds tension gradually, allowing moments of respite only to pull the rug out from under the audience at critical junctures. Through a masterful blend of suspense and horror, it leaves viewers breathless—an apt reflection of the film’s title. There is a deliberate rhythm to how the action unfolds, with moments of chaos counterbalanced by chilling stillness, creating a rollercoaster of emotional highs and lows.

The film’s twists, particularly in the latter half, elevate it beyond a conventional horror-thriller. Without revealing too much, the narrative takes an unexpected plunge into territory that may alienate some but undoubtedly astonishes others. Choices made by the characters lend themselves to debates surrounding sympathy, justice, and revenge, allowing viewers to leave the cinema with lingering questions about the nature of humanity and morality.

One area that might draw critique pertains to the backstory of Norman and his motivations. While the film invests significant time in crafting the dynamics between the three main characters, Norman’s past and the events that led to his current circumstances feel somewhat brushed over. Though this approach effectively maintains a sense of mystique around his character, it can leave audiences yearning for deeper insight and development, especially given the film’s otherwise adept pacing and plotting.

The direction and screenplay strike a fine balance between fear-inducing sequences and character development, yet there are moments where the exposition could have benefited from deeper exploration. Some viewers may find that the film plunges into action at the expense of a richer narrative context, leaving certain thematic elements underexplored. However, the sheer impact of the horror and the tension can overshadow these shortcomings.

In conclusion, “Don’t Breathe” is a gripping thriller that challenges tropes within the horror genre while presenting a compelling study of human nature under duress. With standout performances from Jane Levy and Stephen Lang, coupled with a masterful use of cinematography and sound design, the film successfully immerses the audience in a world charged with fear and desperation. It’s a harrowing reminder of how quickly the lines between predator and prey can blur, leaving viewers questioning their definitions of good and evil.

While it wrestles with heavier themes, the film’s ability to keep audiences at the edge of their seats ultimately secures its place as a notable entry in modern horror. It may not fully satisfy those seeking a thoroughly crafted narrative, but its sheer tension and inventive twists merit recognition. “Don’t Breathe” encapsulates the essence of survival horror, making it an exhilarating experience for fans of the genre.

Score: 8.5/10

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