Movie Review: Old (2021)
Synopsis
"Old," directed by M. Night Shyamalan, ventures into the realms of psychological horror and mystery through its thought-provoking storyline. The film revolves around a family who embarks on a holiday to a tropical island resort, seeking relaxation and quality time together. The family consists of Guy (Gael García Bernal), Prisca (Vicky Krieps), and their two children, a pre-teen named Trent (Alex Wolff) and his younger sister, Maddox (Thomasin McKenzie).
Upon arriving at the resort, they are encouraged by the resort’s staff to explore a secluded beach. The initial charm of the location quickly turns sinister as they begin to discover that time on this beach accelerates at an alarming rate. Hours on the beach equate to years in the outside world. As the family grapples with the sudden and relentless passage of time, they start to physically age, confronting their mortality and existential fears. They are not alone on this beach; other families and individuals, played by a talented ensemble cast, find themselves trapped in this nightmarish scenario. As events unfold, relationships fray and deep-seated secrets are unearthed, leading to a chilling exploration of the human condition under extreme circumstances.
The film blends elements of mystery and horror, exploring themes of time, family dynamics, and the inevitability of aging and death. Will they uncover the truth behind their plight before it is too late? "Old" invites the audience to ponder the essence of time, the value of life, and the inescapable nature of fate as it unfurls a tangled web of twists and turns that are characteristic of Shyamalan’s storytelling style.
List of Actors and Their Characters
- Gael García Bernal as Guy Capa
- Vicky Krieps as Prisca Capa
- Alex Wolff as Trent Capa
- Thomasin McKenzie as Maddox Capa
- Rufus Sewell as Jarin
- Abby Quinn as Kara
- Eliza Scanlen as Lindsay
- Ken Leung as Charles
- Nikki Amuka-Bird as Patricia
- Aaron Pierre as Mid Sized Sedan
- Emun Elliott as the Doctor
- Léa Drucker as the Nurse
Review
"Old" is a film that attempts to blend high-concept storytelling with the horror genre, creating an atmosphere that feels both claustrophobic and existential. From the outset, Shyamalan establishes a unique premise that holds significant promise. The idea of a beach that accelerates the aging process ignites a compelling narrative potential, drawing the audience into a thoughtful exploration of time and its implications.
One of the film’s strengths is its ability to provoke deep contemplation regarding the nature of life and death. As the characters undergo rapid aging, viewers are forced to confront their own perceptions of time, the fleeting nature of youth, and the regrets that accumulate through life. There are poignant moments that capture the essence of family dynamics — grief, love, and the weight of parental responsibilities. Guy and Prisca wrestle with their problems while trying to maintain their family unit in the face of horrific circumstances, showcasing the emotional turmoil that accompanies looming mortality.
The performances in "Old" deserve commendation, with Gael García Bernal and Vicky Krieps delivering compelling portrayals of a couple grappling with both their crumbling marriage and the surreal situation they find themselves in. Their work not only conveys the immediacy of their plight but also showcases the complex emotions tied to love and loss.
Alex Wolff and Thomasin McKenzie, playing the Capa children, also rise to the occasion as they embody the innocence of youth shifting into the harsh realities of adulthood in mere moments. Their transition, coupled with the physical transformations that come with rapid aging, adds a layer of tragic irony to the narrative.
However, while the film establishes its intriguing concepts and garners emotional weight through its character-driven narrative, it is not without flaws. Shyamalan’s signature style of twist endings often leaves audiences divided, and in "Old," the conclusion may not resonate for everyone. As the storyline recalibrates expectations towards the end, the revelations may feel somewhat contrived or lacking in substantive payoff. It sparks curiosity but ultimately leaves some questions unanswered, which may frustrate viewers who prefer a neatly wrapped narrative.
Visually, "Old" excels in its cinematography. The cinematographer, Mike Gioulakis, captures the idyllic yet foreboding landscape of the tropical beach with a vividness that enhances the surreal nature of the film. The use of natural light and the way time is depicted visually adds depth to the viewer’s experience, immersing them in the beautiful yet haunting setting.
In terms of pacing, "Old" is a mixed bag. While the tension and dread build effectively in the beginning, there are instances where the film feels bogged down by exposition. Certain characters play more of a narrative function than a fleshed-out role, leading to a sense of disconnection. The script, while ambitious, sometimes feels overburdened by the weight of its concepts, which can disrupt the flow and focus of the story.
Another aspect worth noting is the film’s score by composer M. Night Shyamalan himself. The music weaves in and out of scenes, enhancing the tension and emotional resonance. At moments, the score is haunting and atmospheric, effectively accompanying the unfolding horror of aging on the beach.
In conclusion, "Old" emerges as a complex and ambitious offering within the horror genre that leaves a lasting impression, invoking a storm of philosophical and emotional inquiries about life and time. While it falls short in some narrative constructs and pacing, the performances and thematic weight elevate it beyond mere entertainment. M. Night Shyamalan generates intrigue and engages audiences with a conceptual premise worthy of discussion.
For its innovative concept and the thought-provoking questions it presents, "Old" is deserving of recognition, albeit with the understanding that it may not be universally applauded. Its flaws may divide critics and audiences alike, yet it undeniably contributes to the evolving tapestry of modern horror cinema.
Score: 7/10