10/11/2025
Not sure about this one...
Vicious (2025), directed by Bryan Bertino and starring Dakota Fanning, is a horror-mystery that excels in atmosphere and dread but struggles with its storytelling.
The film builds suspense through visual and auditory elements, creating a chilling sense of dread around the mysterious box. Dakota Fanning's portrayal of Polly captures her fear and desperation, providing an emotional anchor. The box's concept—"put something you love, something you hate, something you need"—is a strong foundation for horror.
The movie falls short due to a lack of clarity. The origins of the box are unclear, leaving me disconnected by the underdeveloped backstory. Key characters, like the old lady who gives Polly the box, lack sufficient background, making their motivations ambiguous. The vague ending was frustrating, and the pacing slows at times with some good jump scares. Despite this, I kept watching, hoping for more.
Final Verdict
Vicious is a mixed bag. It's valuable for those who enjoy atmospheric horror, but viewers seeking tighter storytelling and clarity may find it frustrating. The film evokes dread but often lacks a satisfying resolutio
