FILM REVIEW: Oddity (2024 Film) - Starring Gwilym Lee, Carolyn Bracken and Tadhg Murphy

 

“Oddity,” the 2024 Irish horror film directed by Damian McCarthy, offers a captivating mix of psychological tension and supernatural unease. The story revolves around Darcy, a blind medium grappling with the aftermath of her twin sister Dani's murder. McCarthy skillfully builds an eerie atmosphere that maintains suspense throughout, opting for a chilling tone rather than relying on excessive gore.

Visually, the film is striking, featuring haunting imagery that complements its grim and melancholic vibe. Darcy’s curiosity shop, filled with cursed objects, along with the unsettling country house that serves as a primary setting, effectively enhance the macabre narrative. The gradual unveiling of Ted’s dark secrets is expertly handled, as is the growing discomfort surrounding Darcy’s connection to her sister’s spirit. A life-sized wooden mannequin from Darcy's cursed collection adds to the escalating horror, delivering some of the film's most unsettling moments, even if its screen time feels frustratingly brief.

The performances are commendable, with Carolyn Bracken shining in her dual role as the tragic Dani and the grieving, determined Darcy. Gwilym Lee portrays Ted with a blend of charm and malevolence, skillfully hinting at his character’s darker layers. The film thrives on suggestion rather than overt scares, which enhances its unsettling quality. McCarthy’s focus on psychological dread, rather than extravagant shocks, cultivates a pervasive sense of foreboding. Though the storyline follows familiar horror tropes, it remains engaging.

“Oddity” excels in its exploration of the unknown, leaving viewers in a state of discomfort as the lines between reality and the supernatural blur. The pacing of the suspenseful moments is expertly managed, with strategically placed jump scares that catch the audience off guard. However, it’s the persistent underlying tension that truly captivates. The supernatural elements are integrated seamlessly into the narrative, enriching the horror without overshadowing the story's core.

The film’s predictability is where it stumbles. While the final twists regarding Ted’s role in Dani’s death are intriguing, they may not come as a shock to seasoned horror enthusiasts. Moreover, the wooden mannequin, a potentially chilling presence, doesn’t receive the attention it warrants. Its significance is apparent, but a larger role throughout the film would have been more satisfying.

Nonetheless, “Oddity” succeeds in crafting a genuinely eerie atmosphere. It knows how to disturb without over-relying on shock tactics. The combination of paranormal intrigue and psychological horror plays to its strengths, and McCarthy's direction keeps the tension consistently high. Although the pacing is deliberate, occasionally feeling slow, it contributes to the mounting sense of dread that permeates the film. The ambiguous and unsettling conclusion lingers long after the credits roll.

Overall, “Oddity” stands out as a strong entry in the horror genre. While it may not innovate in narrative structure, its execution is impressive, striking a compelling balance between suspense and supernatural terror. Despite my wish for more screen time for the eerie mannequin, the film ultimately delivers a haunting experience. I would rate it a solid 8.5 out of 10.

Out Now on Shudder