Horror fans were initially taken aback when they learned that the latest cinematic adaptation of a Stephen King property, “The Boogeyman,” was planned for a direct-to-streaming release. However, due to overwhelmingly positive reactions from test audiences and even the author himself, the decision was made to give the film a well-deserved theatrical release.
Directed by Rob Savage and based on a short story from King’s Night Shift collection, “The Boogeyman” thrives on slow-burn scares and atmospheric tension that truly benefit from the immersive experience of the big screen.
An Intimate Tale of Grief and Haunting: “The Boogeyman” centers around three main characters: Will (Chris Messina), his teenage daughter Sadie (Sophie Thatcher), and her younger sister Sawyer (Vivien Lyra Blair). The trio is still reeling from the recent loss of their mother and resides in a weathered, seemingly haunted house.
Read more The Boogeyman’ to Screen at CinemaCon Ahead of Theatrical Release
When a stranger named Lester (David Dastmalchian) arrives, claiming to be haunted by the boogeyman responsible for the deaths of his children, the family’s lives take a chilling turn. As Sadie ventures into the mysteries surrounding Lester, she encounters his disturbed wife (Marin Ireland) and discovers that the boogeyman may indeed be real.
Building Tension and Atmosphere: “The Boogeyman” excels at slowly tightening its grip on the audience’s nerves, thanks to the exceptional direction of Rob Savage. The film masterfully utilizes jump scares, perfectly timed to maximize their impact.
The theatrical release further amplifies the experience with state-of-the-art sound systems, delivering an immersive and nerve-jangling cinematic encounter. Much of the movie’s runtime is dedicated to escalating tension and an eerie atmosphere, plunging viewers into a realm where the imagination runs wild with fear.
The Power of the Unseen: One of the film’s strengths lies in its ability to exploit the fear of the unknown. The concept of the boogeyman is inherently terrifying, and “The Boogeyman” capitalizes on this by skillfully concealing the entity for a large portion of the narrative. The suggestion of lurking horrors just out of sight heightens the tension, leaving audiences on edge and craving resolution.
However, as the final act reveals the boogeyman in full view, the film loses some of its initial power, venturing into more conventional creature feature territory. Nonetheless, the creature design remains commendable, showcasing the talents of the creative team behind the film.
Conclusion: “The Boogeyman” proves to be a horror gem that benefits greatly from a theatrical release. Its slow-burn scares, expertly executed jump scares, and the gripping atmosphere create an unforgettable cinematic experience. While the film loses a bit of its potency once the boogeyman is fully revealed, it remains a noteworthy adaptation that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
Horror enthusiasts and fans of Stephen King’s works should mark their calendars for the theatrical release of “The Boogeyman” on Friday, June 2. Prepare to be captivated by its spine-tingling tale of grief and the unseen horrors that dwell in the darkness.
