Animal (2014) - A Savage Survival Thriller

 


As I am gearing up for October, I have been earnestly debating whether I will be able to do my 31 Days of Horror in tandem with the Inktober challenge. For September, I have assigned myself a more aggressive writing schedule than usual. I’ve been testing the waters, so to speak, on fitting in movies and writing reviews. So far, I’m not doing so well! (As evidenced by the continuing lack of reviews.) I was able to watch a fun movie again and wanted to take the time today to write about it!

"Animal" is a suspenseful and thrilling survival horror film that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Directed by Brett Simmons and released in 2014, this movie takes a simple premise and turns it into a gruesome battle for survival that will leave you with chills down your spine.

The story begins with a group of friends embarking on a weekend vacation, only to find their plans derailed and their lives in peril. Stranded in an unfamiliar and foreboding wilderness, they soon become the prey of a relentless and bloodthirsty predator. Faced with the threat of death at every turn, the group is forced to take refuge in an isolated cabin, where their desperate fight for survival begins.

One of the strengths of "Animal" lies in its effective use of suspense and tension. From the moment the friends realize they are being hunted, the film maintains a constant sense of dread. The atmosphere is palpable, with the dense forest and the isolated cabin creating a claustrophobic feeling that intensifies as the story unfolds. The darkness of the night and the eerie sounds of the forest add to the overall sense of unease, making it impossible to predict when the predator will strike next.

The characters in "Animal" are fairly well-developed, each with their own distinct personalities and flaws. As the situation becomes increasingly dire, the group's dynamics shift, and alliances are formed and broken. This adds a little more depth to the story and keeps the audience invested in the fate of the characters.


The creature design in "Animal" is both horrifying and impressive. Without giving away too much, the predator is a terrifying and relentless force of nature that is sure to haunt your nightmares. The practical effects used to bring this creature to life are top-notch and contribute to the overall sense of realism and fear.

While "Animal" excels in building tension and delivering a heart-pounding survival story, it does have some moments that may be familiar to fans of the horror genre. There are elements that harken back to classic creature features, and some viewers may recognize certain plot tropes. However, the film manages to put its own unique and intense spin on these familiar elements.

In conclusion, "Animal" is a brutal and suspenseful survival horror film that doesn't pull any punches. With a relentless predator, well-drawn characters, and a gripping atmosphere, it keeps you engaged and anxious for the characters' fates. If you're a fan of creature features and enjoy intense, adrenaline-pumping thrillers, "Animal" is a movie that should be on your watchlist. This is one movie that will make you second guess that weekend hiking trip you’ve always wanted to do.

 


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