The writers and directors definitely restored and utilized the craft of horror which made all of its tropes (some more cliché than others) feel refreshing. There is an atmosphere of dread right from the beginning and it only grows more palpable as it continues slowly crawling under your skin. Before you know it, you'll find yourself looking back every now and then to make sure the Maiden isn't behind you. The acting in this film was as superb and seamless as the effects! And by that, I mean that it was all just so smooth and realistic. It all felt like it belonged and wasn't too cheesy nor over-the-top, but was nested in that sweet middle ground. The character designs, especially the Maiden, were well-constructed. The Maiden's design was so good that it was hard to tell if it was simply make up or if it was assisted digitally. The sound effects and music were used perfectly; rather than abusing them for cheap jump scares, the film utilizes its score to teach the viewer when to be scared or anxious and to bolster the events taking place. Even the silence was used correctly. The cinematography was so smooth in transition, using solid angles and lighting to it's advantage.
I greatly enjoyed this and would love to see more by such a talented group.
I greatly enjoyed this and would love to see more by such a talented group.