Oddity (2024) – A Haunting Irish Horror Movie Review
Oddity, directed by Damian McCarthy, is an Irish horror film that taps into classic supernatural elements with a fresh twist. Known for his 2020 debut Caveat, McCarthy’s return to the horror scene continues his exploration of psychological fear and the unsettling. In Oddity, he delivers a story that weaves paranormal chills with a psychological mystery, creating a slow-burn thriller that keeps you questioning what’s real and what’s not.
The Storyline:
The movie follows Darcy, a blind psychic who returns to her sister Dani’s home a year after her mysterious death. Darcy is determined to uncover the truth about her sister’s demise. Accompanied by her haunting visions and an eerie wooden mannequin, Darcy’s journey spirals into a nightmare as she stays at the house with Dani’s ex-husband, Ted, and his new girlfriend Yana. The narrative may sound like a typical ghost story at first, but the supernatural connection Darcy shares with the mannequin gives it an eerie edge.
The film’s main focus is Darcy’s determination to unravel the events surrounding her sister’s death, especially given her psychic abilities. As she spends more time in the house, the tension grows, leading to a terrifying final act. The film combines elements of ghosts, haunted objects, and psychological horror, keeping the audience on edge throughout.
What Makes Oddity Stand Out:
McCarthy’s signature slow-burn approach makes Oddity an unsettling experience. The film builds dread with its minimalist setting—a remote house—and the unnerving presence of the life-sized mannequin, which becomes a metaphor for the unresolved past. The wooden figure, almost laughable at first, transforms into a constant source of terror as it begins to loom large in the background of scenes.
What makes Oddity unique is how it blends various subgenres of horror. There are moments that feel like a ghost story, others that resemble a slasher flick, and still others that hint at psychological horror. This mishmash of styles can feel disjointed at times, but it keeps the audience on their toes, never knowing what to expect next.
Performances:
A standout in the movie is the performance by Bracken, who plays both Darcy and Dani. She brings a distinct emotional weight to each sister, with Darcy’s cold determination standing in stark contrast to Dani’s warmth. Despite her blindness, Darcy is not a helpless character; instead, she is fiercely driven and confronts the dangers in her path head-on.
Tadhg Murphy also delivers a solid performance as Ted, Dani’s ex-husband, adding depth to a character who could have easily been a stereotypical antagonist. His complex emotions, ranging from guilt to fear, make him a relatable figure, even as strange things start happening around him.
Direction and Cinematography:
McCarthy’s direction is skillful, especially when it comes to atmosphere. The house is a character in itself, with its dark hallways, creaking floors, and the ever-present mannequin adding layers of fear. The film’s pacing is deliberately slow, allowing tension to simmer before unleashing moments of terror. This pacing, while effective for some viewers, may test the patience of those looking for more immediate thrills.
The cinematography by Colm Hogan plays a crucial role in creating this uneasy atmosphere. The camera often lingers on empty spaces, allowing your imagination to fill in the blanks before something terrifying happens. The use of shadows and lighting is subtle yet powerful, enhancing the claustrophobic feel of the setting.
Weaknesses:
Despite its strengths, Oddity does have a few shortcomings. The film’s attempt to blend multiple horror subgenres can sometimes feel jarring, and some plot points are left underexplored. For example, the significance of the mannequin, while terrifying, remains vague and could have benefited from more backstory. Additionally, the slow pace might deter viewers who prefer faster, more action-packed horror films.
Another issue is the film’s conclusion. While it ties up the main storyline, some of the supernatural elements remain ambiguous, leaving you with more questions than answers. This ambiguity works for some, but others may find it unsatisfying.
Ratings:
- Scare Factor: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) Oddity excels in creating a creepy atmosphere and has several genuinely frightening moments. The use of sound and visuals—especially the mannequin—will leave you with chills long after the movie ends. However, it lacks the relentless scares of more mainstream horror films.
- Storyline: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5) The narrative is compelling, especially with its combination of supernatural elements and psychological tension. However, the blending of subgenres and the ambiguous ending might frustrate some viewers.
- Overall Execution: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) McCarthy’s direction, combined with excellent performances and atmospheric cinematography, make Oddity a solid entry into the horror genre. It’s not perfect, but it’s a chilling and unique film that stands out from typical horror fare.
Conclusion:
Oddity is a chilling horror movie that plays on fear of the unknown and the uncanny. While it may not be for everyone, especially those seeking fast-paced horror, its eerie atmosphere and unsettling narrative make it a must-watch for fans of psychological horror. The combination of strong performances, especially from Bracken, and McCarthy’s direction create a film that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll. If you enjoy slow-burn horror that blends the supernatural with psychological tension, Oddity is worth checking out.
In summary, Oddity is a flawed but fascinating Irish horror film that offers a unique blend of supernatural and psychological terror. It’s not without its problems, but for fans of atmospheric horror, it’s definitely worth a watch.
