Horror fans, especially those from Generation X, often hold a deep reverence for the genre, having grown up during the golden age of horror films in the 70s and 80s. This nostalgia can sometimes lead to a dismissive attitude towards modern horror movies. However, there are plenty of new horror films that deserve attention if one keeps an open mind. One such film is “Abigail,” which has recently been released on Blu-ray and is worth a closer look.
“Abigail” is directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, the duo behind “Ready or Not” and the recent “Scream” films. The movie offers a fresh take on familiar horror tropes, blending old-school horror elements with a modern twist. The plot centers around a heist team hired to kidnap the daughter of a powerful underworld figure. The team must guard the 12-year-old ballerina, Abigail, for one night to secure a $50 million ransom. However, they soon discover that Abigail is no ordinary girl, and they are trapped in a mansion with a supernatural threat.
The film features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own quirks, making it easy to root for their eventual downfall. The set pieces are intriguing and creepy, adding to the overall atmosphere of the film. The characters use aliases taken from the Rat Pack, such as Sammy, Frank, and Dean, to avoid identifying each other, which adds an interesting layer to their interactions.
Melissa Barrera, known for her role in “Scream,” plays Joey, a character with an uncanny ability to “read” the truth about people. This skill helps reveal the backgrounds of the other characters in a fun and engaging way. The writing by Stephen Shields and Guy Busick captures the essence of old-time horror without resorting to cheesy dialogue. The plot keeps viewers engaged as the team waits in the mansion with Abigail, leading to a blood-soaked series of events.
The Blu-ray release of “Abigail” is impressive, with a 1080p resolution and an original aspect ratio of 2.39:1. The film’s visuals shine, especially in the darkened halls of the Victorian mansion, and the gore is vividly portrayed. The audio is equally immersive, with an English Dolby TrueHD 7.1 track that enhances the creepy silences, chase scenes, and screams of terror. Brian Tyler’s film score adds to the atmosphere, with a mix of gentle and unsettling music that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Special features on the Blu-ray include a gag reel, a short film titled “Blood Bath,” and featurettes like “Hunters to Hunted” and “Becoming a Ballerina.” These extras provide additional insights into the making of the film and are sure to please fans.
While “Abigail” is not a perfect film, it swings for the fences and delivers a fun and engaging horror experience. The movie blends elements of crime noir, action, and comedy, making it a well-rounded addition to the genre. The potential for a sequel is evident, and it would be interesting to explore the backstory of Abigail and her father, Lazar, a crime lord played by Matthew Goode.
In conclusion, “Abigail” is a solid entry in the horror genre that pays homage to old-school horror while offering something new. The Blu-ray release is a must-have for horror fans, providing a visually and audibly immersive experience. Whether you’re a fan of the directors’ previous work or just looking for a new horror film to sink your teeth into, “Abigail” is worth checking out.
Source: FlickDirect
