Weapons - BEST HORROR of 2025!? - Movie Review

Quick Overview

The horror film "Weapons" is a compelling and well-executed puzzle-box narrative that keeps viewers guessing with its shifting perspectives, ultimately revealing a witch-centric plot, though some found its pacing and comedic elements detracted from its potential for deeper scares.

Key Points: "Weapons" is a compelling horror film that utilizes multiple perspectives to unravel a mystery, ultimately revealing a witch as the central antagonist. The film's narrative structure is described as a "puzzle box" that viewers slowly piece together, creating significant tension and intrigue. Julia Garner and Josh Brolan deliver strong performances, and the child actor playing Alex is also highlighted for his portrayal. Reviewers noted that while the film is suspenseful, it does not deliver intense scares, with some finding the comedic elements in the climax detracted from the horror. Pacing was a point of discussion, with some feeling certain sections were too long and that the concept might have been better suited for a TV series. The film's central mystery involves 17 missing children and a witch who turns people into weapons, with the witch seeking rejuvenation. The film generally received positive reviews, with scores averaging around 8 out of 10, and is considered a solid, well-crafted horror film by many, despite some reservations about its execution.

Context: The film "Weapons" is a new horror movie from director and writer Zach Greger, starring Julia Garner and Josh Brolan. The narrative revolves around a mysterious event at a school where children disappear, leading to widespread confusion and anger among parents and the community. The film's trailer was intriguing, prompting speculation about its underlying themes, such as school shootings, supernatural elements, or even alien involvement.

Detailed Analysis

The horror film "Weapons," directed and written by Zach Greger, stars Julia Garner and Josh Brolan and is praised for its intriguing premise and suspenseful execution. The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, drawing viewers into a mystery involving disappearing children and confused parents. While the trailer hinted at various possibilities from school shootings to paranormal activity, the film ultimately centers on a witch using voodoo to turn people into weapons. Reviewers noted the film's effectiveness in building tension and presenting puzzle-like elements that gradually click into place. However, opinions were mixed on certain aspects: some felt the film, at 1 hour and 28 minutes, was a bit long and could have benefited from a tighter pace, perhaps even working better as a TV series. The inclusion of comedic elements in the climax was a point of contention for some, who felt it blunted the horror. Despite these criticisms, the acting, particularly from Garner and Brolan, was lauded, and the film is generally recommended for horror fans seeking a thought-provoking, well-crafted story, though not necessarily for intense scares. The film received an average rating of 8 out of 10 from the reviewers, with some suggesting it had the potential for a 9 out of 10 if certain pacing and tonal issues were addressed.