Review by Jon Donnis
"Oddity," Damian McCarthy's 2024 Irish horror film, offers an engrossing blend of psychological tension and supernatural dread. The plot, centred around a blind medium named Darcy who is still reeling from the murder of her twin sister Dani, unfolds with a quiet intensity. Mc'Carthy carefully weaves an eerie atmosphere of suspense that keeps the audience on edge, eschewing the typical reliance on gore in favour of a more measured, chilling approach.
The film is beautifully stylised, with haunting visuals that enhance the grim, melancholic tone. Darcy's curiosity shop filled with cursed objects and the eerie country house where much of the action takes place serve as perfect backdrops for the macabre story. The slow reveal of Ted's dark secrets is masterfully done, as is the growing unease that surrounds Darcy's connection to her sister's spirit. The life-sized wooden mannequin, a sinister element from Darcy's cursed collection, plays a central role in the film's escalating horror, providing some of the most unsettling moments, though its screen time feels tantalisingly brief.
The performances are solid, with Carolyn Bracken delivering a standout dual role as both the ill-fated Dani and the determined, grieving Darcy. Gwilym Lee as Ted balances charm with malevolence, subtly building towards his character's dark revelations. The film thrives on suggestion rather than outright terror, which makes it all the more unnerving. McCarthy's decision to focus on psychological dread rather than over-the-top shocks creates a pervasive sense of doom, and even though the storyline follows familiar tropes, it remains engaging.
The film is at its best when embracing the unknown, leaving viewers in a state of discomfort as reality and the paranormal intertwine. The moments of sheer suspense are expertly paced, with some jump scares effectively placed to catch the viewer off guard, but it's the constant underlying tension that keeps you hooked. The supernatural elements are seamlessly blended into the narrative, enhancing the horror without overwhelming the core of the story.
Where Oddity falters is in its predictability. While the final revelations about Ted's involvement in Dani's death are gripping, they don't come as a surprise. For seasoned horror fans, some elements may feel overly familiar. Additionally, the film's most chilling aspect, the wooden mannequin, doesn't receive as much attention as it deserves. Its presence is crucial, but it would have been more satisfying to see it play a larger role throughout the film.
That said, Oddity excels at creating a genuinely eerie atmosphere. It knows how to unsettle and disturb without relying too heavily on shock tactics. The mix of paranormal intrigue and psychological horror works in its favour, and McCarthy's direction ensures that the tension never wanes. The film's deliberate pacing, while slow at times, adds to the growing sense of dread that permeates the story. The conclusion, ambiguous and unnerving, lingers long after the credits roll.
Oddity is a strong entry in the horror genre. It may not break new ground in terms of narrative, but its execution is impressive, and the balance of suspense and supernatural terror makes it a compelling watch. While I wished for more of the sinister mannequin, the film still succeeds in delivering a haunting experience. I would rate it a solid 8.5 out of 10.
Released in the UK on 30 August 2024 on digital and September 27 on Shudder.
