Oddity Review: Irish Horror Keeps You Guessing at Every Strange Turn

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As a seasoned gamer and horror movie enthusiast, I’ve seen my fair share of twisted tales that leave you on the edge of your seat. But Oddity, a chilling new addition to IFC Films’ roster, has managed to stand out from the crowd with its unique blend of vintage eeriness and modern-day suspense.

As a seasoned critic with a penchant for unraveling the most intricate of plots, I’ve seen my fair share of wild tales and captivating performances. But none have quite piqued my interest as much as the one unfolding in the quirky town of Oddity, starring the extraordinarily talented Carolyn Bracken.

Damian McCarthy penned and helmed the film “Oddity.” The movie’s revenge-karma storyline might initially seem slow, but as its intricate plot lifts off in the nail-biting second and third acts, you’ll find yourself eagerly anticipating more by the end. IFC Films has recently acquired several unique horror projects, including the excellent “In a Violent Nature” earlier this year. Get ready to be even more unsettled with “Oddity,” adding to your summer viewing list.

A Spooky Sisterly Bond

In the contemporary story “Oddity,” there’s an unsettling sense of the past that will remind you of old-fashioned tales. This is largely due to the setting, which is a secluded countryside house belonging to Ted (played by Gwilym Lee from “Bohemian Rhapsody”) and his wife Dani (Bracken). The property, where most of the action takes place, evokes a similar atmosphere to Lars Von Trier’s classic film Melancholia, which was set on an expansive and beautiful estate. This nostalgic ambiance adds depth and intrigue to “Oddity.”

As a fan, I found the new IFC release to be both vintage and slightly peculiar. The opening scene left me with goosebumps and a sense of unease as Dani, the wife, encountered grave danger, despite the ominous warnings from the local man, Olin (Tadhg Murphy). Though he had recently been released from prison for murdering his own mother seventeen years ago, there was something inexplicably familiar about him and the impending threat to Dani. It didn’t help matters that her husband, Ted, worked the night shift at the very psychiatric ward where Olin had spent time in recent years. Somehow, he seemed to already know that Dani was in peril on her own soil.

One year has passed, and all that remains of Dani are recollections in the form of pictures and a distinctive voice message she left for her identical sister Darcy. In this message, Dani speaks of having discovered a method to “link” their souls – an announcement made just before the grim reaper paid a visit. Dani, who is still mourning, frequently listens to this message, not only because she yearns for her sibling but possibly due to other reasons as well.

After making one full orbit around the sun, Ted has already begun a new relationship with Yana (Caroline Menton), who became his friend prior to Dani’s unfortunate demise. Similar to IFC’s other recent hit “In a Violent Nature,” the show “Oddity” gleefully explores its graphic violence.

Unbearable Tension Ensues

Ted expresses a strong desire to leave the past behind, yet it’s challenging for him since his late wife’s sister manages an intriguing curio shop. The shop is filled with curiosities that could rival Guillermo del Toro’s creations. On the anniversary of Dani’s death, Darcy unexpectedly drops by Ted’s house and insists on staying overnight. Despite Ted having to go to work the next day, leaving Yana alone with Darcy, who is both blind and increasingly inquisitive.

As a gamer, I can’t help but feel frustrated when people cling to outdated beliefs, like Darcy does with Olin being the culprit. It’s been a year since the heinous crime was committed, yet she refuses to consider that it could be anyone else. Everyone in town believes Olin is responsible due to his past as a fugitive and a murderer from two decades ago. But things took an unexpected turn when Olin turned up dead that very night. And let me tell you, Darcy has some unusual abilities that she’s been keeping hidden inside Ted’s strange residence. Who knows what she might uncover?

After that point, the tension mounts ominously, reaching almost unbearable heights. Darcy, who runs a somewhat eerie antique store, brings along an ominous wooden mannequin as she pays Ted a visit. One can’t help but wonder why she needs such a terrifying prop and what secrets it might hold. Yana grows uneasy and considers leaving, but can’t find her car keys, heightening her curiosity about Darcy’s true intentions and the mysterious happenings on Ted’s property. Despite the ongoing renovations, the place doesn’t look its best.

With its intricately woven components, an explosive element like dynamite, and riveting performances from its main actors, this tale unfolds as a chilling and uncomplicated narrative that could leave audiences yearning for more. The suspenseful ending may spark controversy among viewers, but the prospect of Oddity 2 is an intriguing possibility to look forward to.

From IFC Films, Oddity is now playing in theaters.

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2024-07-19 20:01