In the realm of horror cinema, where the line between the thrilling and the tiresome is often blurred, 'Passenger' emerges as a peculiar addition to the genre. This movie, helmed by the usually dependable André Øvredal, fails to live up to the hype that often surrounds new horror releases. While it attempts to inject style, the result is a clumsy script and unengaging lead characters, leaving viewers with a sense of disappointment.
The story centers around Maddie (Lou Llobell) and her boyfriend Tyler (Jacob Scipio), who have embraced the vanlife lifestyle, trading their New York apartment for the open road. However, their journey takes a sinister turn when they encounter a supernatural entity known as The Passenger. This malevolent force, played by Joseph Lopez, seems to have a peculiar fascination with the characters, often appearing at a distance before screaming directly into their faces.
One of the most intriguing aspects of 'Passenger' is its exploration of the Hobo Code, a historical phenomenon that adds a layer of intrigue to the narrative. However, the film struggles to coherently explain the origins and motivations of The Passenger, leaving viewers with more questions than answers. The exposition, delivered through the character of Diana (Melissa Leo), feels rushed and fails to provide a satisfying resolution.
The movie's attempts to inject style through set pieces, such as the circular camera movement in the parking lot and the van navigating a field of corpses, are not particularly effective. These moments, while visually striking, lack the emotional impact necessary to engage the audience. The gore, though present, fails to evoke the intended fear or suspense.
The biggest sin of 'Passenger' is its inability to deliver scares. The jump scares, while frequent, lack the element of surprise and thoughtfulness that truly terrifies an audience. The film's reliance on loud noises and ghoulish faces shrieking into the camera feels more like a cheap trick than a genuine attempt at horror. In my opinion, the lack of substance beneath the surface is what truly undermines the movie's appeal.
In conclusion, 'Passenger' is a road trip that viewers might want to skip. While it has its moments, the overall experience is marred by clumsy execution and a lack of substance. Perhaps the marketing hype was just that - hype - and the film fails to live up to the expectations it set. Personally, I found myself longing for a more thoughtful and engaging horror experience, one that truly immerses the audience in a world of fear and suspense.
