Fresh in theatres across the country and captivating audiences by storm is the new movie, Night Swim. An eerie thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats and yearning for more. The story revolves around the family of an ex-MLB player who relocates to the middle of nowhere in the USA due to a serious illness. Hoping for a peaceful life away from drama, they soon realize that the past owners of the house left not only with their lives but also with a lingering terror.
With no knowledge of how to survive in this unsettling environment, they find themselves trapped in the clutches of an ancient curse that haunts the property, driving its inhabitants to the brink of insanity. The new family is tasked with uncovering and enduring the curse while trying to maintain the façade of a normal, perfect family. Throughout the film, they discover the value of loyalty, honesty, and the true meaning of family. Despite the twists and turns they encounter, the family’s strong morals keep them united. Night Swim not only delivers the thrill-seeking aspect of a horror movie but also portrays the family values that define a resilient and loving family.
Although the movie’s success can be partly attributed to Wyatt Russell, son of actor Kurt Russell, who plays one of the main roles, relying solely on familial connections may not always guarantee success. One reviewer on IMDb said, “I like Wyatt Russell, what’s not to like? He is the son of Kurt Russell, and that’s a lot to like.” This suggests that some viewers may have attended the movie primarily to see the offspring of a renowned actor rather than for the film’s content.
Reviews of Night Swim have been mixed, ranging from “sub-par” to “very entertaining.” Some praise the film’s creative execution of scares and tension-building techniques, while others criticize its plot and overall quality. Despite the negative feedback, the movie has performed well at the box office. Although categorized as horror, some critics perceive it more as a “light horror” or thriller, drawing comparisons to films such as The Bye Bye Man, Evil Dead Rise, and the Scream series.
While Night Swim incorporates plenty of jump scares and manages to deliver moments of fright, the acting, though good, lacks depth. Given the haunted estate plotline, the movie surpasses expectations but could have benefited from more nuanced performances to enhance its overall appeal. Nevertheless, Night Swim is an enjoyable watch and comes recommended for those seeking a thrilling cinematic experience.
