Experience Thrills and Chills: A Deep Dive into ‘Until Dawn’ – Review of the Scares and Stumbles

After watching Until Dawn in theaters, I have some thoughts on how the game translated to film.

As a long-time fan of Until Dawn and other works by Supermassive Games, I was curious about what the movie would bring to the table. Many gamers believe that adapting choice-based games into films is tough. Director David F. Sandberg seems to agree, as this film takes liberties that make it more an homage than a straightforward adaptation.

Overview

Until Dawn centers on a group of friends retracing the last known steps of a missing girl named Melanie. Their journey leads them to the isolated town of Gore Valley. After sunset, they find themselves stuck in a deadly time loop, facing a terrifying fate. They have until the thirteenth night to escape, or they may be trapped forever.

Film vs. Game

If you’re hoping for a faithful retelling of the video game, you might be let down. The movie features only one character from the game and includes a few Easter eggs, but that’s about it. Think of it as a tribute to the original instead. The time loop is a clever way to incorporate the game’s choice-based nature into a film format. Each reset brings new choices and unexpected outcomes, keeping viewers guessing.

Mixed Feelings

However, the film does have its flaws, especially in the final act. While it’s understandable that depicting all thirteen nights isn’t practical, the way the story rushes to the conclusion feels unsatisfying. Some of the best scares advertised in trailers are condensed into a brief montage. This left me feeling that the tension was lost.

Also, the methods of death for some characters seemed illogical. One particularly gruesome scene raised my eyebrows and felt like a cheap plot device to prevent the characters from simply hiding.

The Scares

On a positive note, Until Dawn nails the jump scares. Known for its shock moments, the movie carries that legacy well. Just when you think it’s safe, a terrifying twist awaits. The last act is especially chilling, with plenty of jarring moments that had me on edge. The film even incorporates game mechanics, like a monster that tracks through sound, paying homage to fans.

Conclusion

Despite its drawbacks, there’s plenty to enjoy in Until Dawn. If you approach the film as a tribute rather than an exact remake, you’ll likely have a good time. With its successful blend of scares and creative storytelling, I wouldn’t mind seeing more adaptations from Supermassive Games in the future.

For more details on adaptation trends in gaming, you can check this report from the Entertainment Software Association.

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