A PG-13 CREEPFEST WITH A DASH OF NOSTALGIA
Freddy Fazbear is back, but this time he’s coming for the big screen. Will this adaptation of the wildly popular video game give you a fright? Or do these cuddly animatronics just bite?
Let’s find out!
The main story revolves around Mike Schmidt, played by Josh Huctherson, who, let’s face it, hasn’t changed his look much since his ‘Futureman’ days. Mike is troubled by his childhood trauma and needs to sleep at night to relive his past instead of living in the present. So when he gets a job that requires him to stay awake at night, it’s not just his haunting dreams he has to watch out for, something is seriously not right with these animatronics.
What I will say this movie does right is keeping the look of the mascots we’ve come to know and fear. Freddy, Bonnie, Chica, and Foxy, all add to the nostalgia factor. However, the PG-13 rating means the kills are either cutaway from before you see them, or hidden in the shadows or scene jumps.
One standout scene is when one of the characters gets bit completely in half. Although they only show the shadow of what happened and apparently blood doesn’t exist, The sheer horror and quickness of the moment leaves an mark.
The rest of the jump scares or deaths seemed pretty vanilla in comparison and that’s fine if your tween and really wanted to see this movie and can’t stand graphic content. I had a similar complaint with M3gan and that movie crushed it at the box office.
The suspense builds as each night progresses, and you find yourself holding your breath as you desperately watch Mike enter the dream world to try to unravel this mystery, it was giving off Nightmare on Elm Street vibes. So the movie was more creepy, than it was horror.
The movie’s narrative is not just about the jumps. It subtly delivers a message: Don’t live in the past. Concentrate on making your present better. Mike’s struggle with past trauma parallels the eerie animatronics, allowing the viewer to explore the theme of facing one’s inner demons.
The movie’s ending is much better than most of what comes before it and leaves room for a sequel, which is almost a given considering the immense popularity of the ‘Five Nights at Freddy’s’ IP.
“Five Nights at Freddy’s” is a definite recommendation for fans of the game and its lore. If you’re already acquainted with the animatronic horrors of the game or if you’re a horror fan looking for a spooky film that’s light on gore, this film is worth your time.
It’s important to note that this movie might not be as visceral as some horror enthusiasts might expect. For some, it may feel like it’s intended for a younger audience. The film’s target demographic and adherence to a PG-13 rating influenced the level of intensity, but it offers a fun ride for those who find themselves within its niche.
This is a good film… no texting required!
In conclusion, Five Nights at Freddy’s expertly balances nostalgia with fresh chills, making it an engaging horror experience. Although it may not have you on the edge of your seat, gripping your armrest, it will give you a thrill and perhaps make you crave more. Whether you’re a fan of the game or someone looking for a horror flick that won’t give you nightmares, give this one a watch. You might not be drenched in sweat with fear, but you’ll certainly be entertained. We are giving Five Nights at Freddy’s 7.5/10.
