Warning: This article contains significant spoilers for the film Drop!
While Blumhouse’s Drop offers an engaging thriller experience, it leaves viewers grappling with numerous unresolved questions and implausible plot developments that can undermine the story’s credibility. As an admirer of the production company and creatively-driven director Christopher Landon, my anticipation was high when I prepared to review Drop. After viewing it twice for in-depth analysis, my initial enjoyment was reflected in critic Mae Abdulbaki’s positive review, where she praised the cinematography, continuous suspense, and strong performances. It was clear that Landon drew inspiration from revered filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock, showcasing this in a variety of cinematographic techniques.
That said, upon rewatching Drop, I shifted my focus from its creative aspects to its narrative structure, and I discovered that the film tends to unravel when scrutinized closely. A plethora of plot holes and questionable character actions emerge, which can distract audiences as they reflect on the movie’s logic.
9 How Did Richard Bug The Entire Restaurant?
Richard’s Abilities Seem Unreasonable Without an Accomplice
The film suggests that Richard can monitor Violet’s every move, evidenced by his awareness of her writing in a bathroom stall. However, this prompts the question: How exactly did he bug the entire restaurant? At Palate, none of the staff indicate familiarity with him, nor do we see him accessing tools or accomplices that might aid in his surveillance efforts. This ambiguity left me pondering the logistics after my first viewing.
8 How Did Violet Fake Pouring the Poison into the Tequila?
Richard’s Watchfulness Makes Violet’s Ruse Implausible
Drop hinges on the premise that Violet is under constant surveillance from her threats. This scenario raises a critical question: How did she manage to fake the act of pouring poison into Henry’s tequila? Given Richard’s close watch, any misstep, including liquid visibly exiting her vial, should have raised alarm. Without an alternative container to distract them, her deception appears highly questionable, casting doubt on her performance skills and the constraints of her environment.
7 How Did the Meter Reader Gain Access to Violet’s House?
The Meter Reader Was Not Granted Entry
A significant plot ambiguity arises about how this character gained entry into Violet’s home. Given her anxiety over leaving her child, it seems improbable she would neglect to lock her doors. Could he have manipulated her into letting him in, or did he exploit an open door? Displaying this moment onscreen would prevent speculation and enhance narrative clarity.
6 Who Is Richard’s Employer?
Unveiling Richard’s Mysterious Employer
During pivotal discussions with Violet, Richard curiously refers to “my employer” without disclosing identity. This omission becomes particularly frustrating as it shapes the narrative’s backdrop. If he’s employed by a legitimate organization, the advanced surveillance tactics become perplexing. Conversely, if he works for an underground group tied to a larger embezzlement scheme, it invites further malformations into the story’s dynamics and interconnections.
5 How Did the Conspirators Manipulate Violet into Going on a Date with Henry?
The Timeline of Manipulation Remains Unclear
Richard’s motivations for wanting Violet to murder Henry are clear, but it raises an intriguing question about the conspirators’ orchestrations leading to this outcome. A web of coincidences seems to underlie their entire plan. They had to ensure a match on a dating app, influence both characters’ preferences, and coordinate a date that conveniently matched their timeline for bugging the venue. Such intricacies challenge the story’s believability.
4 How Did Richard Clone Violet’s Phone?
The Technology Presentation Is Inconsistent
Image via Universal Pictures
When Violet attempts to call 911 early on, she learns that her phone has been cloned, raising important questions about the feasibility of such technology. To my knowledge, cloning typically requires direct access to the device or intricate technical knowledge that appears underdeveloped in the film’s context. The film leaves audiences puzzled about how Richard managed to clone Violet’s phone so effectively.
3 Why Didn’t Henry Have Another Backup for His Photos?
A Lack of Precaution from Henry Raises Questions
As an informant for the FBI, Henry’s role is crucial given his possession of evidence against the mayor. It’s bewildering that Richard’s coercion could force Violet to destroy his sole SD card, especially since Henry is aware of the dangers of failing to have multiple backups. While this doesn’t qualify as a plot hole, it definitely raises eyebrows regarding his judgment.
2 Who Aided Richard in Killing Phil?
Mystery Surrounds the Assistance Richard May Have Received
Image via Universal Pictures
One of the most significant plot inconsistencies occurs when Richard sees Violet preparing to pass a note to Phil before he fatally poisons him. Given that Richard never leaves his spot, it is inconceivable he could have carried out the act unassisted. The identity and role of whoever collaborates with him remain intangible, casting a shadow over the plausibility of the situation.
1 Why Did Henry Stay on the Date?
Red Flags Were Abundant Yet Ignored
The most incredulous aspect of Drop is perhaps Henry’s willingness to remain on a date filled with multiple warning signs. Violet’s persistent phone disruptions and erratic demeanor contribute to an atmosphere of unease. The fact that he does not leave when profound irregularities arise undermines believability. While other character choices may be forgiven, this particular moment stretches the limits of credibility to an uncomfortable extent.