This year, the horror genre has seen numerous prequels, reboots and remakes, so, when an original horror movie emerges, it brings a sense of freshness. These original films sometimes manage to secure theatrical releases, just like this one did. Despite its limited run, I regret not being able to experience it on the big screen, as it has the potential to be the most terrifying movie of the year.
Oddity was directed by Damian McCarthy, whose previous film was his debut feature, Caveat (2020). The movie follows blind psychic, Darcy, on her quest to find who murdered her twin sister, Dani, a year prior. Dani’s late husband, Dr. Ted Timmis, has moved in with his girlfriend, Yana, at the country house they were renovating. A large crate arrives at their door shortly before Darcy makes a surprise visit. The crate contains a life-size wooden mannequin of a man with a terrifying open mouth, almost in a scream.
From this point, the movie unfolds at a pace brimming with mystery, excitement and tension.
The opening scene immediately puts you in a state of trepidation. A stranger knocks loudly at the country estate door and tells Dani that he saw someone follow her into the house and that she is not safe. What would you do?
The camerawork does a good job of putting you front and center in the situation, creating anxiety about what choice you would make. The sound amplified the feeling with sudden loud noises that made me jump out of my seat. Be prepared for several effective jump scares throughout the movie.
The house where most of the movie takes place has the perfect atmospheric tone with its cobblestones and dark corners. It’s beautiful during the day, but at night, it becomes a house of horrors. The cinematography is fantastic, and the landscape is gorgeous. The use of light and shadows in this movie is perfect for a supernatural film. Where budget constraints might be a consideration, utilizing creativity and editing effectively will yield positive results, as it certainly did in Oddity.
Special acknowledgment goes to Carolyn Bracken for portraying two characters, Dani and Darcy, among the brilliant actors. Her performance is enthralling and so well done that I did not even realize she plays both sisters till halfway through the film. She delivers an emotionally moving performance that brought tears to my eyes toward the finale.
And, of course, the wooden mannequin. Who wouldn’t want a terrifying mannequin from their murdered wife’s psychic sister? It was inspired by the golem of Jewish folklore. I would have liked to see more kills by the mannequin, but I understand that might not have been feasible due to budget constraints. The expert editing emphasizes how the unseen can evoke greater fear by tapping into our imagination.
I found this movie thoroughly enjoyable. The enchanting Irish countryside, paired with a spine-tingling ghost story, perfectly captures the essence of Autumn, my favorite time of year. For the best experience, watch this on a dark, stormy night. And always remember, never let strangers inside your home.
Oddity is available for rental on Video On Demand and will start streaming on Shudder on September 27.
Rated R — 98 minutes — Horror/Mystery and Thriller — IFC Films / Shudder