The Boogeyman (2023)

Prepare for a haunting journey in “The Boogeyman” a film that made its way from streaming to theaters due to audience reactions. While it’s not a terrible movie, it falls short of being exceptional, offering a familiar yet entertaining ride. With captivating cinematography, solid acting, and some effective scares, it’s still worth a watch, but be prepared for a runtime that feels 45 minutes too long.

Despite claiming to be “from the mind of Stephen King,” the film’s connection to the original short story is tenuous at best. The story diverges significantly, leaving fans of King’s work craving something more faithful to the source material.

The movie revolves around grief, as a sinister boogeyman preys on those dealing with loss. Psychiatrist Will Harper (Chris Messina) and his daughters, Sadie (Sophie Thatcher) and Sawyer (Vivien Lyra Blair), grapple with the recent death of their wife and mother. Their world takes a terrifying turn when a disturbed man unleashes the boogeyman upon them.

Director Rob Savage attempts to infuse depth into the horror genre by exploring themes of loss and family dynamics. While commendable, the film struggles to break free from traditional horror movie conventions. The extended runtime, padded with repetitive grief exploration and underdeveloped side characters, hinders the overall experience.

The boogeyman itself is visually striking, and the film effectively employs cinematography and editing for spine-chilling moments. The creature’s introduction sets a terrifying tone, but it fails to maintain that level of terror throughout the movie. As the boogeyman repeatedly fails to claim victims, its threat diminishes, leaving viewers questioning its supposed deadliness.

In summary, “The Boogeyman” falls into mediocrity, offering a middle-of-the-road horror experience. Director Rob Savage shows promise but sticks to familiar territory, making the film feel predictable. While it has its moments, it’s best suited for streaming rather than a theatrical visit.