The Dead Thing: A Review of Online Dating Horror
Arriving on Shudder just in time for Valentine’s Day, The Dead Thing is a new horror movie that delves into the horrors of online dating. In a sea of content critiquing apps like Tinder, Grindr, and Bumble, this film struggles to bring anything new or remarkable to the table. With underdeveloped characters, fleeting stylistic choices, and lackluster scares, The Dead Thing fails to leave a lasting impression.
The Monotony of Modern Dating
Alex (Blu Hunt) finds herself stuck in a monotonous cycle of uninspiring first dates, superficial conversations, and mediocre encounters. Her mundane job and isolated life only amplify the emptiness she feels. The film highlights the shallowness that plagues modern dating, illustrating how surface-level interactions through dating apps can erode our ability to form meaningful connections.
A Glimpse of Depth Among the Superficial
When Alex meets Kyle (Ben Smith Petersen) on a new app called Friktion, they discover a rare connection beyond the usual small talk. However, as their bond deepens, unsettling secrets come to light, adding a layer of tension to their relationship. While not a novel concept, this exploration of intimacy in the digital age brings a sense of authenticity to the narrative.
A Missed Opportunity for Terror
Despite its compelling premise, The Dead Thing falls short in delivering genuine scares or a sense of dread. The film lacks the specificity required to make a dating horror story truly chilling. The characters lack depth and fail to evoke the nuanced vulnerabilities needed to engage viewers on a deeper level.
A Lackluster Execution
Furthermore, the film’s stylistic choices waver between intriguing and amateurish, resulting in a disjointed viewing experience. The initial promise of atmospheric lighting and eerie visuals quickly dissipates, leaving the audience with a half-hearted attempt at psychological horror.
Missing the Mark on Social Commentary
While The Dead Thing attempts to touch on the pitfalls of modern dating, it ultimately falls short in offering any meaningful insights or commentary. The portrayal of Alex and Kyle as mere vessels for societal critique lacks the nuance needed to critically examine the complexities of contemporary relationships.
In summary, The Dead Thing fails to capitalize on its intriguing premise, offering little more than a surface-level exploration of the perils of online dating. As the film flounders in its execution, it ultimately leaves viewers wanting more substance and depth.