ou can run, but you can’t survive.

Directed by Adam Schindler and Brian Netto, and starring Kelsey Asbille and Finn Wittrock, Don’t Move, available on Netflix, dives deep into the visceral world of kidnappings and serial killings, where fear becomes tangible, survival hangs by a thread and the past holds dark secrets that do not remain buried. This film, written by Schindler and Netto themselves, is an edge-of-your-seat experience that will leave you checking over your shoulder long after the credits roll.

Dont Move is a thriller narrating the gripping story of Iris, a grieving mother whose life takes a horrific turn when she encounters a seemingly sympathetic stranger named Richard at the site of her son’s death. What begins as a tragic moment of sorrow, Iris revisiting the site of her son’s death, quickly morphs into a fight for survival, as Richard is revealed as a sinister predator. The tension is relentless: Iris must summon every bit of her resolve and ingenuity to escape. The film captures the despair and desperation of her initial loss but shifts into an empowering journey as Iris, against unimaginable odds, finds strength she did not know she had.

Kelsey Asbille delivers an electrifying performance as Iris, capturing the vulnerability and resilience required to make the character resonate with the audience. Asbille’s portrayal is raw and immersive, drawing viewers into the fear and tension that permeate her character’s life. Finn Wittrock also gives a solid performance as Richard, balancing the fine line between scepticism and concern as he pursue Iris. The chemistry between the two actors brings depth to the underlying relationship between Iris and her late son, making her fight for survival all the more believable and heart-wrenching. This casting choices are commendable, as both actors contribute layers of complexity to their roles, making the audience root for Iris.

The directors craft an atmosphere that feels suffocating, desperate and suspenseful, leaving audiences on edge throughout. They employ silence and stillness effectively, allowing dread to build before unleashing terror in unpredictable bursts. The close-up shots capture the minute expressions of terror and unease on the actors’ faces, making viewers feel as though they are trapped alongside Iris. Cinematographer Antonio Riestra plays a pivotal role in heightening the fear through the visuals. He uses shadow and light masterfully to create an eerie atmosphere, with scenes that linger on darkened forest floors, empty riverbeds and ominous silhouettes. This film skillfully utilises the endless curves of the forest to convey isolation, making large, open areas feel claustrophobic. Each frame is meticulously constructed, often giving the impression that something sinister lurks just out of sight; watching and waiting. Riestra’s work on this film reinforces the idea that horror is not always about what we see, but also about what remains hidden.

The screenplay that is rich in psychological tension and sparse in exposition. The strategy serves the narrative well. The dialogues are kept minimal, heightening the sense of mystery and forcing the audience to piece together clues alongside the protagonist. Conversations between Iris and Bill often provide a respite from the terror but are tinged with silent emotions that add to the film’s psychological depth. The writing effectively balances the basic plot of a kidnapping movie with emotional undertones, allowing viewers to connect with the characters on a deeper level and understand how the depth of grief cannot stop a person from fighting to survive if threatened. There is a clear focus on the theme of confronting one’s past, with dialogues that subtly hint at the trauma Iris is trying to suppress. Even when shadows of despair press down like unyielding storms, the human spirit fights to stay afloat, grasping for life with a fierce, hidden flame that refuses to be snuffed out.

Cinematographer Antonio Riestra plays a pivotal role in heightening the fear through the visuals. He uses shadow and light masterfully to create an eerie atmosphere, with scenes that linger on darkened forest floors, empty riverbeds and ominous silhouettes. Riestra’s work on this film reinforces the idea that horror is not always about what we see, but also about what remains hidden.

Sound is an effective instrument in Don’t Move, enhancing the tension and amplifying the dread. The music, written by Roque Baños, is unnerving yet compelling, containing low, menacing sounds that intensify the viewer’s fear without being too overwhelming. The soundtrack is sparse, allowing ambient sounds to fill in the blanks and form part of the scary atmosphere. Every creak, whisper and faint sound heightens the tension, creating a terrifying setting that feels immersive. This minimalist style to music puts listeners on edge, ready for the next scare.

The film’s aesthetic relies largely on muted colours and gloomy lighting to heighten the bleak and oppressive atmosphere. The set design, which features dilapidated settings and ancient furnishings, evokes a sense of decay, echoing the themes of repressed memories and haunting pasts. The visual palette is dismal and sombre, resulting in an immersive horror experience that is both visually and mentally disturbing.

A masterful blend of suspense, terror and emotional depth, it is a horror film that does not rely on jump scares alone. Instead, it builds fear through tension, atmosphere and character-driven storytelling. For horror enthusiasts, it is a thrilling experience that combines supernatural dread with psychological horror, resulting in a film that’s both terrifying and thought-provoking. Casual viewers may appreciate the film’s narrative structure, which focuses on trauma and survival rather than mindless gore.

The film’s portrayal of Iris’s journey is both haunting and riveting. There are intense scenes that keep the viewer on edge as she confronts life-or-death stakes. The atmosphere is amplified by the unpredictability of Richard’s menacing character, which creates a disturbing psychological layer as he hunts Iris through forests, rivers and back roads. In Iris’s final act of defiance, she reclaims her will to live, not only escaping her captor but symbolically releasing herself from the grip of grief. This unexpected journey from despair to resilience makes the film compelling and cathartic, leaving the audience with a chilling reminder of the human instinct to survive and rebuild even in the darkest of circumstances.

The movie touches on themes of trauma, repression and confronting one’s past, which resonate with real-world struggles. In today’s world, where mental health awareness is on the rise, the film subtly addresses the toll of unhealed wounds and how they can manifest in one’s life. Iris’s journey of confronting her inner demons while struggling for her own survival is symbolic of the therapeutic process many undergo to heal. The film serves as a reminder that when things go wrong one can run, go numb, bury oneself in grief yet one day they have to come face to face with the pain and anguish again. The symbolism of the physically paralysing agent is perhaps one of the best representations of how psychological defence mechanisms work. The chasing element serves as a metaphor for the haunting power of the past, making the film a poignant reminder that what we bury can sometimes rise again.

Don’t Move is a scary thriller film that provides an exciting experience while exploring deep psychological concepts. With great acting, evocative cinematography and a suspenseful atmosphere, this film is a must-see for aficionados of cerebral horror. It combines otherworldly terror with real-world themes, not only shocks but also encourages thought, making it one of the best horror films of 2024. Whether you’re a psychological thriller fan or interested in stories of survival, this film promises to bring both terror and reflection, in equal measure.

The writer has a degree in psychology with a minor in mass communication. She can be reached at ukmaryam2 @gmail.com