Until Dawn (2025) review

 

Based upon on the hit video game of the same name Until Dawn isn't a like for like adaptation of the game no, instead it is more of an origin story so to speak. The story follows a group of friends who while out searching for one of them's sister who has gone missing in a secluded area end up inside a house where a time loop takes form leaving them with no choice except to survive until dawn. The setup is simple and it kinda of meanders until the group get to the house but once inside it is where the movie is at it's best and revelations come to life and creatures and looming forces begin to manifest. 

I played the game way back in 2015 and absolutely loved it then and with a recent rewatch of the games story in preparation for this movie I really enjoyed it again. I was sort of not looking forward to this before seeing it but truth be told this did surprise me. It's full of everything the game is with a little bit more thrown in like the time loop which is such a fascinating idea leading to some gory kills and jumpscare moments. The dynamic between the friends is fine it's nothing too spectacular but they do work together well enough.

Until Dawn isn't perfect by any means, from Director David F Sandberg of Lights Out and Shazam fame it's clear to see the horror elements present. In that aspect Until Dawn is at it's best when it's topsy turvy all turned upside down leading to a pretty explosive finale..literally. If you enjoyed the game you'll deftinitely have fun with this if not then it's pretty run of the mill fare especially in terms of characters and world building. A solid if albeit uninspired horror movie that won't really break or innovate the medium but is still pretty enjoyable. 

★★★