Succubus movie review by movie16

 

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Succubus movie review

Succubus, written and directed by R.J. Daniel Hanna, takes what could have easily been a forgettable low-budget horror flick and turns it into a surprisingly engaging and unsettling ride. Initially appearing to be a run-of-the-mill supernatural thriller, the film quickly shifts gears, keeping audiences tightly gripped in its sinister narrative. It’s a horror film that excels in both its atmospheric tension and its ability to explore dark, psychological themes without relying heavily on cheap jump scares.

The story follows Chris (Brendan Bradley), a tech financier whose life is spiraling out of control. His business has failed, his marriage to Sharon (Olivia Grace Applegate) is on the rocks, and he’s left alone at home with his infant son, juggling personal and professional crises. His best friend, Eddie (Derek Smith), urges him to try online dating to shake things up. Reluctantly, Chris swipes right on a mysterious woman named Adra, played by Rachel Cook, whose seductive allure and hidden face pull him into a dangerous web. As Chris begins to unravel the mysteries surrounding Adra, he discovers terrifying truths about the nature of their relationship—and about succubi, supernatural demons that drain their victims of life through seduction.

Rachel Cook shines as Adra, embodying the role of a succubus with chilling ease, balancing innocence and menace as she manipulates both Chris and the audience. The film leans into its central theme with gusto, transforming Adra’s presence into a metaphor for toxic seduction and the dangers of temptation. Cook’s performance enhances the eerie atmosphere, bringing depth to a character that could have easily fallen into cliché.

Brendan Bradley’s portrayal of Chris adds complexity to a man who could have been written off as a typical tech bro. Bradley’s character is deeply flawed but relatable, struggling to navigate the fine line between redemption and damnation. His descent into chaos is mirrored by his relationship with Adra, and Bradley makes Chris sympathetic, even as he makes increasingly poor decisions.

Other standout performances include Derek Smith as Eddie, a character who brings surprising emotional vulnerability to his alpha-male persona, and Olivia Grace Applegate as Sharon, Chris’ estranged wife, who becomes a central figure in the film’s climactic moments. Ron Perlman’s enigmatic Dr. Orion Zephyr is a brilliant addition, with Perlman lending an air of mystery to the film as he plays a man who may or may not have the answers Chris is seeking.

Visually, Succubus benefits from strong production values for a genre film. Jimmy Jung Lu’s cinematography captures both the unsettling intimacy and creeping dread of Chris’ world, while Andrew Brick Johnson’s score builds tension and enhances the film’s eerie tone. Hanna’s direction keeps the audience on edge, with the horror stemming as much from psychological tension as it does from supernatural scares.

What sets Succubus apart from many low-budget horror films is its focus on mood and suspense over cheap thrills. Hanna delivers a story that lingers long after the final credits roll, leaving viewers with a sense of unease. The final act, especially, delivers a punch that elevates the film from simple horror to a psychological nightmare.

While Succubus may not reach the cinematic heights of an Ari Aster film, it offers a chilling and unnerving experience that makes it stand out in the crowded horror genre. Its unexpected twists and strong performances ensure that this is a movie worth watching, especially for fans of slow-burn horror that prefers to disturb rather than merely shock.

In short, Succubus is a genre film that surprises with its depth and execution, offering a horror-thriller that’s as psychologically haunting as it is terrifying. Whether viewed on VOD or the silver screen, it’s a ride to hell that’s well worth taking.

Director: R.J. Daniel Hanna

Producer: Todd Slater, Anna Elizabeth James, Ari Novak, Ron Perlman, R.J. Daniel Hanna

Screenwriter: R.J. Daniel Hanna

Distributor: SHOUT! STUDIOS

Production Co: Kiss and Tale Productions, Pixium Film Group

Genre: Drama, Horror, Mystery & Thriller

Original Language: English

Release Date (Theaters): Sep 24, 2024, Limited

Release Date (Streaming): Sep 24, 2024

Runtime: 1h 43m

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