Based on the hit horror video game, Until Dawn (2025) brings the creepy feeling from the games onto the big screen with a new spin. The movie is not a copy of the game, and the name is more like a title to get people to watch. This was upsetting due to the fact that the game has an incredible story, but the movie misses out on that. The movie’s new story keeps some familiar characters and monsters from the game. At least you get to see those characters in a different light.
David F. Sandberg’s directing is aiming for a physiological horror with classic slasher tension. It does not live up to the intense choice driven storytelling but it’s still a great try at an enjoyable physiological slasher.
The movie follows Clover Ella Rubin, a teenager who travels to a remote valley with her group of friends to search for her missing sister. Soon after they find a lodge to stay in, strange things start happening, and the group finds themselves caught in a deadly time loop. Each night they face different threats, from mythical monsters to other humans. The only way to get out of this time loop is to survive until dawn, hence the name. The plot starts strong, but the time loop concept becomes repetitive in the second half of the movie.
The cast is led by Ella Rubin, who gives a solid performance as a determined and emotional actress. Odessa A’zion plays one of her friends Maya, adding some chemistry and intensity to the group dynamic. Ji-young yoo also stands out, giving more depth to her character. Fans of the video games will appreciate the return of Peter Stirmare as Hill, doing a great job providing the same unsettling acting as a therapist as the unsettling, creepy feeling you get from the game. Max is played by Michael Cimino doing an incredible job as an ex-boyfriend, which adds another level of emotional connection to the characters.
Until Dawn looked great. Cinematographer Maxime Alexandre creates an eerie, isolated feel with dark forests, snowy mountains and a great sense of unknowing.
The lighting and camera help build suspense and urgency throughout the movie. Especially in scenes where something is right out of camera view. This movie most definitely works the best on a big screen.
The music by Benjamin Wallfish does its job well, adding tension without becoming distracting. The sound track is not super remarkable, but it does its job and keeps you on your toes. The story has some strong elements, but it’s not as gripping as the original game. Without the interacting choice system, the movie feels more predictable; the time loop ends up losing stream by the end. Still, there are enough twists and turns that make the movie interesting. The solid performances and the haunting kills are enough to keep the movie entertaining.
Overall I would say it’s worth the one time watch in theaters. Until Dawn ends up being a decent horror movie that does a lot right, but it doesn’t quite reach the heights of the source material. It’s worth a watch just for the spooky thrills and unexpected kills.
