Tarot

Tarot tries to be a fresh entry in the horror genre but ultimately stumbles over its own conventions. With a premise that promises suspense, it instead delivers a blend of missed opportunities and familiar tropes.

A Reckless Reading Gone Wrong

A group of friends, seeking thrills, decide to engage in a Tarot card reading against the backdrop of a spooky legend. As they carelessly break some cardinal rules, they unleash a malevolent force trapped within the cards. What starts as innocent fun spirals into a horrifying fight for survival as each member confronts the ominous fate that follows their reckless decision. The film’s plot, while setting the stage for a tense thriller, lacks depth and nuance, with predictable outcomes overshadowing the initial promise of suspense.

Uneven Performances and Silly Choices

The performances in Tarot are decent but feel uneven. Harriet Slater as Haley stands out with a compelling portrayal of a character grappling with escalating fear. However, characters like Lucas (Wolfgang Novogratz) and Elise (Larsen Thompson) fall flat, lacking sufficient development to engage the audience fully. The film doesn't utilize its supporting cast effectively, with many characters serving as mere fodder for the horror elements rather than actual contributors to the narrative. This leads to a disjointed experience where emotional connections feel shallow and unearned.

Standard Horror with Missed Opportunities

Directed by Spenser Cohen, Tarot employs standard horror visuals and tropes that might work for genre fans but fail to elevate the film beyond its predictable storyline. The pacing feels off, often dragging in moments that should be tense while rushing through some crucial character developments. The cinematography offers basic shadows and creaks typical of the horror genre but lacks any unique flair that would make the visuals memorable. Ultimately, the direction feels safe, not daring enough to take risks that could have made the film stand out.

Boredom Amidst the Anticipation

Watching Tarot is an experience filled with ups and downs. The build-up to the horror elements feels slow, and although there are moments that tease genuine suspense, they often fall flat due to the film's predictable nature. Frustration kicks in as the characters make absurd decisions that take you out of the moment, making it hard to feel for their plight. While there are flashes of intrigue, the overall emotional weight feels diluted, leaving viewers more bored than terrified, especially during its slower pacing.