The Unborn is a horror film directed and written by David S. Goyer. Despite my usual optimism for new horror films, this one fell flat. While I hoped for something engaging, I ended up disappointed. Let’s explore why this film didn’t meet expectations.
Plot Summary
The story centers on a young woman named Casey, who is haunted by a ghostly presence. This entity wants to possess her body. As she seeks help, she faces numerous jump scares and disturbing nightmares. The film attempts to create a spooky atmosphere but struggles to deliver a coherent narrative.
Key Characters
- Casey: The protagonist haunted by a demon.
- Gary Oldman: Plays a priest who helps Casey.
- Ida: A character who provides insight into the haunting.
Goyer’s Direction and Writing
David S. Goyer is known for his work on major films like Batman Begins and The Dark Knight. However, his directorial efforts, including The Unborn, leave much to be desired.
Strengths
- Visuals: The film has some impressive imagery and technical quality.
- Creepy Moments: There are a few genuinely unsettling scenes.
Weaknesses
- Weak Script: The story lacks depth and coherence.
- Character Development: The characters feel one-dimensional and unconvincing.
Themes and Influences
The Unborn tries to pay homage to classic horror films like The Shining, The Exorcist, and Rosemary’s Baby. However, it fails to capture the essence of these masterpieces.
Key Themes
- Possession: The film explores the idea of demonic possession but lacks a believable foundation.
- Fear of the Unknown: While it attempts to evoke fear, it often falls short.
The Problem with Jump Scares
One major issue with The Unborn is its reliance on jump scares. These cheap thrills often disrupt the flow of the story. Instead of building tension, the film resorts to loud noises and sudden images to startle the audience.
What Are Jump Scares?
- Definition: Sudden loud sounds or shocking visuals meant to scare viewers.
- Effectiveness: They can be effective but often feel like a lazy way to create fear.
Lack of Realism
The film struggles with realism. The characters, including Casey, seem more like models than real people. This lack of authenticity makes it hard for viewers to connect with their struggles.
Casting Choices
- Superficiality: The focus on attractive actors detracts from the story.
- Performance Issues: Even talented actors like Gary Oldman seem to underperform.
Confusing Plot Elements
The plot of The Unborn is riddled with inconsistencies. The spirit haunting Casey is said to be denied entry to heaven, yet the rules governing this are unclear.
Key Questions
- Why is the spirit obsessed with Casey? The film offers no solid explanation.
- What are the rules of possession? The lack of clarity leaves viewers confused.
Modernization of Exorcism
The film attempts to modernize the concept of exorcism, but it feels forced. The characters must sign release forms and show identification for the exorcism to proceed. This comedic element undermines the film’s horror.
Exorcism Elements
- Jewish Exorcism: The film introduces a Jewish perspective on exorcism, which feels out of place.
- Magic Words: The reliance on “magic words” for the exorcism adds to the silliness.
Overuse of Dream Sequences
Dream sequences can be effective in horror films, but The Unborn overuses them. This leads to a lack of real-world tension and engagement.
Issues with Dream Sequences
- Lack of Impact: Too many dreams dilute the story’s urgency.
- Disconnection: Viewers may feel detached from the main narrative.
Visuals vs. Story
While the film has some striking visuals, they cannot compensate for the weak story. Disturbing imagery is wasted on a plot that lacks substance.
Notable Visuals
- Distorted Faces: Some scenes feature unsettling images that could have been impactful.
- Demon Imagery: The makeup and effects work are commendable but underutilized.
Conclusion
The Unborn is a missed opportunity in the horror genre. Despite its potential, the film suffers from a weak script, reliance on jump scares, and a lack of realism.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a horror film that delivers both scares and substance, The Unborn may not be the right choice.
