Malignant

Sometimes, horror films just don't hit the mark. 'Malignant' is an example of a film that swings for the fences but lands awkwardly in the outfield.

A Nightmare from the Past

'Malignant' follows Madison (Annabelle Wallis), a woman plagued by horrific visions of murders that she soon discovers are interconnected with her own past. As she delves deeper, the film takes a turn into the territory of body horror and a sort of supernatural detective story. With a runtime of 111 minutes, you’re introduced to a blend of psychological suspense and gory visuals. However, the film struggles with pacing, introducing characters and plot points that either feel rushed or poorly fleshed out, leaving viewers scratching their heads rather than on the edge of their seats.

A Cast That Misses the Mark

Annabelle Wallis gives it her all as Madison, making the most of a somewhat convoluted script. However, the supporting characters, like Detective Kekoa Shaw (George Young) and Sydney Lake (Maddie Hasson), are frustratingly underutilized, existing largely as plot devices rather than fully realized individuals. Their performances often come across as wooden, contributing to the film’s uneven tone. It's a shame, because with a stronger ensemble cast, the emotional stakes could have been heightened and the character dynamics more compelling. Instead, we get a cast that feels largely interchangeable.

Stylized but Stretched Thin

James Wan's direction leans heavily into stylized horror, echoing his previous successes, but here it borders on over-the-top. The visual effects can be impressive, with some truly grotesque imagery that’s undeniably memorable. However, the film's ambition often clashes with its execution, leading to moments that feel unintentionally comedic rather than terrifying. The editing lacks the tightness necessary to maintain tension, leaving viewers with prolonged sequences that drag. It's a mixed bag of clever visual ideas hampered by a lack of coherent pacing.

Confusion Over Terror

Watching 'Malignant' is a bit of a rollercoaster, but more of the awkward kind that leaves you feeling confused than thrilled. While there are flashes of genuine horror, many moments fall flat, leaving you to wonder if the film is taking itself seriously. The pacing drags particularly in the second act, where I found myself glancing at the clock, eager for it to pick up momentum. The film culminates in a somewhat absurd climax that feels more silly than scary. This emotional whiplash detracts from what could have been a gripping experience.