When the initial trailer for Antlers was released, the anticipation for a groundbreaking entry in the horror genre was palpable. However, the reality of the film left much to be desired. Set against the foreboding backdrop of Oregon, the story follows a teacher, played by Keri Russell, and her sheriff brother, portrayed by Jesse Plemons, as they uncover a sinister secret: a student is hiding a malevolent entity in his home. Despite an engaging premise, the film unfortunately did not live up to its potential.
Initially, Antlers showcased an impressive ensemble cast and promised an eerily atmospheric experience. Adapting the narrative from a short story titled “The Quiet Boy,”the film had its share of strengths, yet it ultimately felt like an ordinary horror flick that had missed an opportunity to shine.
Why Antlers Sparked My Excitement in 2021
The Trailer & Premise Were Intriguing
The latter part of the 2010s marked a renaissance for horror cinema, highlighted by standout films such as Get Out, Hereditary, Talk to Me, X, and Barbarian, all pushing the boundaries of storytelling and fear. Antlers seemed poised to join this elite group with a tantalizing promise of suspense. With Keri Russell and Jesse Plemons, both acclaimed actors, and director Scott Cooper at the helm, there were high hopes for a thrilling cinematic experience.
Keri Russell appeared to be transitioning into the role of a horror icon, and the film’s palpable sense of dread was amplified by its unsettling visuals. In reading “The Quiet Boy,”the source material, one could feel a haunting sense of despair, which raised expectations that Antlers would faithfully translate this tension to the screen.
The Disappointment of Antlers
A Movie That Missed Its Mark
While not categorically a bad film, Antlers struggled to fulfill its initial promise. Reviews varied, yet a consensus emerged regarding both the film’s strengths and weaknesses. The performances of Russell and Plemons garnered acclaim, complemented by some striking cinematography. However, the film faltered in its primary task: delivering genuine scares.
The screenplay emerged as a key weakness, as it grappled to effectively juggle its multiple narrative threads, leading to a rushed and unsatisfying climax. Ultimately, the array of terrifying elements failed to evoke the fear necessary for a successful horror film. The wendigo, intended as the primary threat, paled in comparison to the terror posed by the abusive father depicted in flashbacks, and even the most impactful kill sequence seemed to lack substance.
It raises the question of whether Scott Cooper has fully captured the essence of horror. His previous films, which include acclaimed works such as Black Mass, Hostiles, and Crazy Heart, strayed from the horror genre. His next project, a musical biopic about Bruce Springsteen, indicates a continued exploration of diverse genres. Should he venture back into horror, there’s hope he may craft something truly fear-inducing. For now, Antlers remains a good yet ultimately unremarkable entry in the genre, a promising concept that never quite reached its full potential.