A group of friends trapped in a time loop, where mysterious foes chase and kill them in gruesome ways, must survive until dawn to escape it.
David F. Sandberg, primarily known for directing the two SHAZAM! movies, initially established his reputation in horror with “Lights Out” (2016) and “Annabelle: Creation” (2017)—the latter frequently cited as a high point in its series. “Until Dawn” marks Sandberg’s return to the genre, bringing the celebrated 2015 Supermassive Games and Sony Computer Entertainment video game to the movie screen.
The plot follows a straightforward yet engaging trajectory: Clover, Max, Nina, Megan, and Abe set out to trace the last movements of Clover’s sister, Melanie, who disappeared under mysterious circumstances a year prior. Their investigation leads them to the deserted mining town of Glore Valley. When a fierce thunderstorm traps them, they take shelter in the visitor center. As darkness sets in, a chilling cycle unfolds—the friends are killed off one at a time, only for the night to restart when a mysterious hourglass appears. Each revival leaves them more battered, their injuries compounding with every iteration.
Matters become more dire as the group discovers that, although the night keeps repeating, the sequence of events and dangers is never the same. This lack of predictability keeps them from preparing for what’s next. In her quest for answers, Clover uncovers the bleak past of Glore Valley, which suffered a devastating mining disaster years ago. Dr. Hill (Peter Stormare) was brought in to help survivors, and the group soon suspects he is key to their ongoing nightmare. They resolve to locate him before another night of terror descends, uncertain whether escape is even possible.
The film invites parallels to “Silent Hill,” immersing its characters in a distorted world where peril is ever-present and rationality is in short supply. The lead actors handle their roles well, with Stormare making a muted but memorable impact in his limited scenes.
Visually, “Until Dawn” is striking, utilizing a crisp 1.85:1 frame to enhance its vivid color palette and fine visual detail. It sits comfortably among time-loop films like “Happy Death Day,” “Edge of Tomorrow,” and “Groundhog Day,” but sets itself apart by altering the specifics of each repeated night, keeping viewers and characters off-balance and maintaining suspense.
Sandberg manages the pacing skillfully, sidestepping the fatigue that can bog down this subgenre. The ever-changing threats force the characters to adapt, creating a sense of movement even as events cycle.
While the film’s monsters borrow heavily from classic horror designs, the abandoned visitor center and town setting generate a real sense of dread. The monsters’ reveals are less impactful than expected, hinting that leaving more to the imagination might have heightened the film’s effect.
Although I haven’t played the original game, it’s reputedly popular among fans. For those unfamiliar with its source, this adaptation provides a serviceable horror experience—entertaining enough, though it doesn’t fully break new ground within the genre.
Now available on Digital and on 4K Ultra HD™, Blu-ray™, and DVD July 8th
