The Void, a 2017 horror film directed by Jeremy Gillespie and Steven Kostanski, promised to be a nostalgic trip for fans of the genre, drawing inspiration from the works of H.P. Lovecraft, Clive Barker, and revered directors like John Carpenter, George Romero, and Lucio Fulci. With such a rich tapestry of influences, expectations were high for a movie that aimed to pay homage to the golden era of horror.
The film sets its scene in a desolate hospital, where a group of individuals, including a police officer, are trapped by cult-like figures. The premise is ripe with potential, offering a claustrophobic setting that could have been the perfect breeding ground for tension and terror. However, despite its promising setup and genuinely terrifying practical effects that hark back to classics like Carpenter’s “The Thing,” The Void falls short in execution.
Critics have pointed out that the film suffers from a lack of originality, with its plot being described as wafer-thin and its pacing as poorly managed. The characters, while competently portrayed, fail to engage on a deeper level, often reduced to generic survival archetypes. The film’s style, too, has been criticized for being inconsistent, with its dark color palette and reliance on close-ups reminding viewers of its low-budget nature rather than immersing them in a horrifying world.
The Void does offer a rush for hardcore genre enthusiasts, with its practical effects and splatter-centric set pieces earning some praise. However, the overall experience is marred by a sense that we’ve seen it all before, and done better. The homage to the ’80s horror feels more like a pastiche, lacking the innovation or the narrative strength to stand on its own.
In the Nutshell
The Void is a film that might attract viewers with its promise of old-school horror and practical effects, but it ultimately fails to deliver a memorable or unique experience. It’s a movie that gets louder and grosser as it progresses, but not necessarily better, becoming an endurance test rather than an enjoyable fright fest. For those seeking a tribute to the horror greats, The Void might offer some moments of interest, but it’s unlikely to leave a lasting impression. I give 3 out of 5 stars.
If you already saw this movie, help us rate the movie by click on the Star Rating.
Profile
Genre: Cosmic Horror (Lovecraftian Horror)
You can watch on: