Watching A Quiet Place: Day One made me reconsider the harsh criticism often aimed at the Star Wars prequels. Aside from the notorious Jar Jar Binks, Episodes I, II, and III aren’t as bad as their reputation suggests. Similarly, had this prequel been the inaugural entry in the franchise, it would likely have secured a spot in my Top 10 films of the year.
However, the two previous films in this series (A Quiet Place and A Quiet Place Part II), released over the last six years, have thoroughly established the lore of these terrifying creatures, detailing their strengths and vulnerabilities. This existing familiarity dulls the suspense and scares in this prequel.
For newcomers, A Quiet Place is a post-apocalyptic horror media franchise centered on a world inhabited by blind extraterrestrial creatures with an acute sense of hearing, which wreak havoc and force humanity to live in silence to avoid detection.
The film excels in several technical aspects. The score by Alexis Grapsas is a notable highlight, standing strong alongside Marc Beltrami’s compositions for the earlier movies. From the opening scenes, the music adeptly builds tension and is skillfully integrated throughout the narrative.
Moreover, the CGI, crafted by Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), is exceptional. The visual effects are so meticulously rendered that they blend seamlessly into the film, particularly in scenes showcasing the creatures in intricate detail. The realism achieved in these moments is commendable, showcasing the high caliber of ILM’s work.
The set and production design are equally impressive, convincingly portraying a city on the brink of destruction following the creatures’ initial assault. The immersive environment significantly enhances the film’s atmosphere.
Directed by Michael Sarnoski, known for Pig (2021), the film leans more towards emotional resonance than sheer adventure. However, the lead performances by Lupita Nyong’o and Joseph Quinn felt emotionally lacking until the climax. While the film is beautifully shot and well-paced, it may leave long-time fans of the franchise feeling underwhelmed in parts. The familiarity with the established universe undermines the potential for suspense and thrills.
Interestingly, a friend of mine, new to the A Quiet Place universe, thoroughly enjoyed this installment. This perspective highlights how much more engaging the film might be for those less familiar with its predecessors.
In a perfect world, I’d be able to watch Day One with fresh eyes, free of preconceived notions. As it stands, this prequel, while solidly crafted, may signal a need for a pause in the A Quiet Place series.
Verdict: 3/5
Special mention to the team that organised the event. Everything was calm and seamless. The audio and video quality at PVR Lido was among the best I’ve experienced in Mumbai.
(This article has been written by AnimationXpress consultant Taher Siamwala)