In the world of horror-comedies, it’s a fine line between the macabre and the amusing, and “Abigail” pirouettes that line with a fanged grace. Directed by the duo Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, known as “Radio Silence,” the film presents a high-concept horror thriller that’s as much about the laughs as it is about the scares.
The premise is deliciously twisted: a group of kidnappers find themselves in over their heads when their supposed easy target, a child-sized vampire ballerina, turns the tables on them. The film stars Alisha Weir as the titular character, whose performance is both eerie and captivating. She brings a certain relish to the role, embodying the vampiric qualities with a blend of innocence and malevolence that’s quite compelling.
Kevin Durand and Dan Stevens lead the ensemble cast, delivering performances that strike the right balance between over-the-top and genuinely engaging. They’re supported by Melissa Barrera, who plays the anti-heroine team leader with enough grit to keep us rooting for her, despite the thin character development.
“Abigail” doesn’t shy away from genre tropes; it embraces them with open arms and a knowing wink. There’s plenty of blood to satisfy gore fans, and the vampire makeup is notably well-executed, especially the fangs which are a cut above the typical prosthetic. The action sequences are a highlight, albeit sometimes marred by over-editing, but they do provide the necessary adrenaline rush.
The film’s pacing is a bit uneven, with some critics noting that it takes its time to get going and might linger a little too long. However, once it hits its stride, “Abigail” is a rollicking ride that doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s a movie that knows what it is and who it’s for, and it delivers on that promise with gusto.
In a landscape where vampire stories have been done to undeath, “Abigail” manages to inject fresh life into the genre. It’s a testament to the fact that even the most familiar tales can be revitalized with a creative twist and a spirited cast. The film has been described as “a bloody delight” and “good, bloody fun,” with a twist that catches you off-guard and keeps you engaged.
In the Nutshell
Overall, “Abigail” is a reminder that horror films can be smart, funny, and still pack a punch. It’s a film that invites you to laugh at the darkness and dance along with its undead ballerina. So, if you’re in the mood for a movie that blends horror, humor, and a bit of ballet, “Abigail” is a performance worth attending. Just remember, in this theater, the vampires bite back. [4 out of 5].
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Genre: Vampire Thriller
You can watch on:
- Amazon
- DVD/Blueray
- Peacock