Movie Review: Veronica (2017)
Synopsis:
"Veronica" is a Spanish supernatural horror film directed by Paco Plaza, best known for his work on the "Rec" series. Set in 1991 Madrid, the film follows the harrowing experience of a 15-year-old girl named Veronica, played by Sandra Escacena. The film is loosely inspired by real-life events surrounding a series of inexplicable incidents in the Spanish capital.
The story begins with Veronica, who, while attempting to communicate with her deceased father, unwittingly opens a portal to the supernatural using a Ouija board. Following a séance with her friends, she quickly realises that they have invoked something malevolent. As strange occurrences escalate, Veronica grapples with terrifying visions, paranormal disturbances, and a growing sense of dread, exacerbated by her struggles as a young caregiver to her younger siblings in a difficult household. The mounting pressures of adolescence, grief, and the supernatural soon intertwine, causing her to spiral into a nightmarish existence.
The film delves into themes of isolation, responsibility, and the haunting shadows of the past, masterfully crafting a narrative that is equal parts emotional and frightening. "Veronica" presents a striking study of a young woman on the cusp of adulthood, as she navigates the challenges of family life while facing the horrifying consequences of dabbling in otherworldly forces.
List of Actors and Characters:
- Sandra Escacena as Veronica
- Claudia Placer as Diana, Veronica’s younger sister
- Iván Chavero as Antonio, Veronica’s younger brother
- Ana Torrent as Father
- Marta Rujas as Rosa
- Santiago De La Rosa as the police officer
- Jesus Codina as the teacher
- Ángela González as Tia
- Raúl Prieto as police detective
Review:
From the outset, "Veronica" is arresting in its premise and execution. The film shines in its ability to evoke an overwhelming sense of dread, leveraging the claustrophobia of Veronica’s home life against the overpowering horror that spills into her reality. The cinematography is hauntingly beautiful, with the film’s setting—gritty, dark halls and shadow-laden rooms—enveloping the viewer in its menacing atmosphere.
Sandra Escacena delivers a stunning performance as Veronica. Her character is deeply layered, reflecting not only the anxiety induced by her encounters with the sinister but also the immense responsibility she bears as a caregiver to her siblings. Escacena’s ability to portray fear, vulnerability, and strength makes her a compelling protagonist. The bond she shares with her siblings is genuine, lending depth to her character’s motivations and enhancing the emotional weight of the narrative.
The supporting cast also contributes significantly to the film’s success. Claudia Placer and Iván Chavero, who play Veronica’s younger sister and brother, respectively, capture the innocence and vulnerability that further complicate Veronica’s struggle. The interactions are fraught with tension, yet laced with tender moments that humanise the otherwise relentless horror.
Paco Plaza’s direction is masterful, displaying his adeptness for building tension and pacing throughout the film. Unlike many horror films that resort to jump scares, "Veronica" leans more heavily on psychological horror, slowly revealing the inevitable consequences of Veronica’s fateful decision. His use of darkness as a narrative device is particularly effective; there is a palpable fear that hovers in the shadows, leaving viewers uneasy and engaged.
The film’s sound design also plays a crucial role in heightening the sense of dread. The score is minimalistic yet haunting, accentuating quiet moments with a chilling undercurrent. Ambient sounds create an unsettling atmosphere, compelling the audience to confront the disturbing events unfolding onscreen. At times, the score feels almost suffocating, enveloping the viewer in the horror of Veronica’s experiences.
Moreover, "Veronica" skilfully weaves in cultural elements that add to its authenticity and depth. The film’s exploration of the spiritual, combined with the Spanish milieu, grounds it in reality while simultaneously elevating its supernatural aspects. The references to the early 90s, both in terms of the socio-political landscape and the nuances of day-to-day life, evoke a sense of nostalgia that directly contrasts with the horrors the characters face.
However, while "Veronica" excels in atmosphere and character development, it does have some pacing issues. The buildup to the climax can feel a tad slow for modern horror film audiences who are accustomed to a more rapid-fire delivery of scares. Despite this, it allows the audience to become more invested in Veronica’s plight, creating an emotional pay-off that is much more powerful than a series of jump scares.
The film also tackles themes that resonate on a personal and societal level. Veronica embodies the struggles faced by many adolescents: grappling with loss, managing responsibilities, and the ever-looming shadow of social expectations. Her interactions often reflect the societal pressures young girls face, making her character relatable despite the supernatural circumstances. The film subtly critiques the lack of support systems available to those grappling with emotional trauma, particularly in rigid socio-cultural settings.
Perhaps one of the film’s most powerful elements is its ending—intensely haunting and beautifully tragic. It leaves a lingering sense of dread, long after the credits roll. The choices made by Veronica result in profound consequences that resonate with the viewer, demonstrating that when we invite the unknown into our lives, we must often confront the horrors that accompany it. It encapsulates the essence of horror, not merely as a genre defined by fright, but as a medium through which human tragedy and vulnerability can be explored.
In conclusion, "Veronica" stands out as a significant entrant in the horror genre, notable for its character-driven narrative, atmospheric tension, and haunting performances. It is a film that marries psychological depth with supernatural horror, offering a chilling yet profoundly human exploration of grief, responsibility, and the horror that can lie beneath the surface of everyday life.
With its captivating storytelling and compelling performances, "Veronica" deserves recognition as one of the more innovative horror films in recent years. For its remarkable direction, haunting atmosphere, and emotional depth, I would score "Veronica" an 8 out of 10.
