"Ouija: Origin of Evil" is one of those movies you wish you could see again for the first time. Even though I first saw it years ago, I decided to dedicate my last blog post to this film since it is one I can talk extensively about.
For context, This film is a precursor to the 2014 movie "Ouija" and was directed by Mike Flanagan. It takes place in the 1960s. The plot of the movie is undoubtedly one of its most unique elements. A widowed mother and her two daughters are central to the story; they con people by organizing fictitious seances to get money. But their lives take a dark turn when they bring home an Ouija board as a new prop for their act. They soon begin to encounter paranormal phenomena, and it becomes apparent that they have allowed the evil demon into their house.
The film's pace is perfect, with the tension escalating as the plot develops.
One thing I do want to emphasize is the cinematography of this film. There were so many incredible shots that were creative and fear-evoking. The one that stands out to me is when one of the characters looks through a hole in the wall, but the camera is angled to see slightly over his shoulder. There, we see the possessed young girl continuously shifting and making odd bodily movements. The camera is just slightly out of focus. However, the audience knows that WE are supposed to be seeing the erratic behavior from the little girl, not the character in the frame. Horror movies do that often, with one of the most famous stereotypes of watching a movie involves the line "Don't go in there!". With the help of nifty camera work and effective sound design, Flanagan does a fantastic job of evoking a frightening atmosphere in even the most uninteresting of moments. Compared to other horror films, the jump scares are well-timed and not overused, which is refreshing.
Additionally, "Ouija: Origin of Evil" features excellent acting. Lulu Wilson and Annalise Basso, the two young actresses who play Alice's daughters, and Elizabeth Reaser, who plays the mother, perform outstandingly.
Because the characters are well-developed and written, it's easier for the audience to empathize with them.
The movie's attention to detail is another noteworthy aspect. The film, set in the 1960s, accurately depicts the time's style, music, and general aesthetic. This focus on detail enhances the story's immersion for the viewer and gives the scares a more genuine feel.
In conclusion, the horror film "Ouija: Origin of Evil" is beautifully produced and will have you on the edge of your seat. The acting is outstanding, the tale is captivating, and the level of detail is astounding. This film is a tribute to Mike Flanagan's brilliance and further evidence that he is among the top horror film directors.
Also, like I mentioned at the beginning of this, this will most likely be my last blog post. It's been fun. Bye!!
- Isa <3
