Friday, June 28, 2024

A Quiet Place: Day One

We are in the throws of the summer film season and as with the other summer seasons, it is fraught with big-budget films that cater to the 18-34 single male demographic, especially since school is out. And with that, we will see franchises, sequels, prequels, remakes, animated flicks to offer us. "A Quiet Place: Day One" is the third installment of the 'Quiet Place' franchise to sink our teeth into--and what a ride!

When New York City comes under attack from an alien invasion, a woman, Sam (Lupita Nyong'o) along with her caregiver, Reuben (Alex Wolff) and subsequent, Eric (Joseph Quinn) attempt to find a way to safety. They soon learn that they must remain absolutely silent as the lethal, mysterious creatures are drawn to the slightest sound and they will kill instantly. Sam is visiting the city from her hospice where she is in the process of dying from a terminal illness. So, as she is trying to keep as comfortable from the pain, she is helping others to reach a place of safety all the while these creatures are waiting for anyone to make a sound. 

Others to round out the cast are Djimon Hounsou as Henri, Jennifer Woodward as Nurse, Elaine Umuhire as Zena, Alexander John as Priest, Alfie Todd as Max and Elijah Ungvary as Frightened Man. 

This was directed by a virtual newcomer to feature films, Michael Sarnoski ("Pig" '21) plus TV and shorts. Certainly his TV and shorts experience has served him well considering how this film simply keeps its audience on the edge of their proverbial seats. Like the original film directed by John Krasinski, which was directed with incredible grit and painstaking suspense, this film must've been influenced by Krasinski since Krasinski was also one of the producers of this film. The actors in this were squarely on edge as to not make a sound, and this is talented directing. He will certainly receive more work. It was intensely written by Michael Sarnoski ("Pig" '21) plus TV and shorts as well, and is based on a story by John Krasinski and Michael Sarnoski, which is based on characters created by Bryan Woods and Scott Beck. Again, even though Sarnoski's lack of experience, he undoubtedly was influenced by Krasinski in the creation of the screenplay. It would've been helpful if we knew when and why these aliens came to this planet--since this is day one. It just seemed that there was relative peace, and all of a sudden, there is amazing mayhem. But, as with the two prior films, I believe that the intent that there be a common thread in each film would help with connecting the characters. Sarnoski has a future in Hollywood for more work. And the visual effects predominantly designed by ILM (Industrial, Light & Magic) were seamless and certainly emphasized the chaotic world these aliens created. 

Certainly if you like this franchise, you'll love this, but even if not, the sheer being kept on the edge of your seat is always fun (once in a while). Will there be a number 4? Possibly, but it is going to have to make a truck load of money in order for that to happen. 

Out of 4 Stars: 3.5                                         Rated: PG-13                                         99mins.


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