Abigail, the latest film from Radio Silence Productions, is a horror movie centered around a little girl who is revealed to be a vampire. However, the film takes a long time to get to the horror elements, instead opening with a heist plot in which a group of criminals kidnaps the daughter of a wealthy businessman for ransom. The reveal that the little girl is a vampire is not surprising as the marketing materials heavily play into this aspect of the film.
After the slow start, Abigail transitions into its horror elements, but the narrative structure of the film leaves much to be desired. The plot unfolds like a vintage Scooby-Doo episode, with predictable surprises and a convoluted unmasking of the villains at the conclusion. The film descends into silliness with subplots about alliances, ultimately losing any semblance of a coherent plot amidst buckets of blood and plot twist oneupsmanship in the third act.
Despite its flaws, Abigail does have some redeeming qualities. Performances from actors like Kevin Durand and Dan Stevens add some enjoyment to the film. Alisha Weir gives a standout performance as Abigail, portraying the cunning little villain who has spent centuries as a “child”. The film, which premiered at The Overlook Film Festival in New Orleans, was well-received by the audience, with screams turning into laughter, making it a fun experience to watch with a crowd.
While Abigail may offer some entertainment value, it lacks the substance to truly leave a lasting impact. The film’s reliance on horror cliches and lackluster narrative prevents it from making a strong impression on viewers. The comparison to amusement park rides made by Martin Scorsese is apt, as Abigail provides momentary thrills that are easily forgotten once the film ends.
In conclusion, Abigail may appeal to horror fans looking for a quick thrill, especially when watched with a crowd. However, the film’s lack of originality and weak narrative may leave audiences feeling underwhelmed. Despite some strong performances, Abigail ultimately falls short of leaving a lasting impression in the realm of horror cinema.
