Film Review: Until Dawn (2025)
Until Dawn (2025), directed by David F. Sandberg, is a cinematic adaptation of the 2015 interactive horror video game of the same name. Rather than retelling the game’s original storyline, the film introduces a fresh narrative that retains the game’s core themes of survival and horror.
Metacritic
The story follows Clover (Ella Rubin) and her group of friends as they venture into the remote Glore Valley to uncover the mystery behind the disappearance of Clover’s sister, Melanie. Seeking shelter in an abandoned visitor center, they encounter a series of horrific events, including being hunted by a masked killer. Each time they are killed, they awaken to relive the same night, with the threats evolving in each iteration. The group realizes they are trapped in a time loop and must survive until dawn to break the cycle .
Direction and Cinematography
Sandberg, known for his work on Lights Out and Annabelle: Creation, brings his horror expertise to the film, creating a tense and eerie atmosphere. The cinematography by Maxime Alexandre effectively captures the claustrophobic and unsettling environment of Glore Valley. The use of practical effects, especially in the portrayal of the wendigos, adds a layer of authenticity to the horror elements .
Performances
The ensemble cast delivers commendable performances, with Ella Rubin standing out as the determined protagonist, Clover. Peter Stormare reprises his role from the video game as Dr. Alan J. Hill, providing a sense of continuity for fans. However, some critics have noted that character development is lacking, leading to a diminished emotional impact .
Adaptation and Narrative Structure
The film takes creative liberties by introducing a time-loop mechanic, differentiating it from the game’s linear narrative. This approach allows for exploration of various horror subgenres within a single framework. While innovative, this structure has received mixed reactions. Some viewers appreciate the homage to the game’s mechanics, such as the “don’t move” sequences, while others feel the film becomes repetitive and lacks a cohesive identity .
Critical Reception
Until Dawn has garnered mixed reviews. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 53% approval rating, with critics praising its atmospheric tension but criticizing its underdeveloped characters and convoluted storytelling . Metacritic reports a score of 47 out of 100, indicating average reviews . Some critics commend the film’s ambition and stylistic choices, while others believe it fails to capture the essence of the original game.
Bloody Disgusting!
Box Office Performance
With a modest budget of $15 million, Until Dawn has achieved a global box office gross of approximately $50 million. Its financial success suggests a positive reception among general audiences, despite the mixed critical reviews .
Wikipedia
Until Dawn (2025) offers a fresh take on the horror genre by blending elements of slasher films with supernatural horror within a time-loop narrative. While it succeeds in creating a tense atmosphere and pays homage to its video game origins, it falls short in character development and narrative cohesion. Fans of the original game may appreciate the nods to the source material, but newcomers might find the film’s structure and storytelling less engaging. Nonetheless, Until Dawn stands as a bold attempt to innovate within the realm of video game adaptations
movie trailer
DOWNLOAD MOVIE BELOW
https://www.mediafire.com/file/g6lbo2nj4zlnxmu/UNTIL+DOWN.mp4/file?dkey=c21raaxcgo9&r=1198