“Drop” Delivers Tension Without Missing a Beat
In the ever-evolving landscape of horror cinema, there’s something almost nostalgic about a film that leans into the age-old fear of “the call is coming from inside the house.” “Drop,” directed by Christopher Landon, serves as a reminder that while smartphones may routinely kill the suspense in traditional horror films, they can also serve as a conduit for dread and suspense.
An Engaging Thriller with a Modern Twist
“Drop” follows Violet, portrayed by the talented Meghann Fahy (known from The White Lotus), as she navigates her first date in years. After months of texting, Violet reluctantly meets Henry (Brandon Sklenar) for dinner in a swanky Chicago high-rise. However, her romantic evening shifts dramatically when a series of threatening phone messages disrupt the mood. These chilling messages demand that she comply with horrific requests, including the unthinkable act of harming her date, all while her young son waits at home with Violet’s sister.
Stuck in a Restaurant with All Eyes on Her
Set almost entirely within the confines of a high-end restaurant, “Drop” crafts a story with claustrophobic tension. The unique premise involves an app called DigiDrop, which can send messages only from someone within 50 feet, effectively turning every diner—from the oblivious bro who bumps into her to the overly friendly waiter—into a potential suspect. With a masked assailant watching her every move, Violet finds herself anchored to her table, torn between the danger to her son and the macabre situation unfolding in front of her.
A Cast that Engages and Captivates
The film shines due to the strong performances from its leads. Fahy and Sklenar exude a kind of urgency that feels palpably real, creating a connection with the audience that elevates the film above typical low-budget thrillers. Their chemistry, coupled with their terror, keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as the plot thickens.
Thematic Depth Beyond the Thrills
While some may quibble about the film’s plausibility—Could a mother really concentrate on a meal while peril lurks just outside?—“Drop” operates on levels deeper than mere thrills. Violet’s struggle transcends the immediate tension; it symbolizes the challenges faced by single parents stepping back into the dating scene, especially when haunted by past traumas. This nuanced exploration adds layers to the story, prompting audiences to reflect on contemporary issues such as digital safety and the messiness of online dating.
More Than Just a Horror Flick
“Drop” also serves as a commentary on our modern relationship with technology. The film introduces an antagonist composed solely of text messages, effectively questioning how much terror we invite into our lives through our devices. As Violet grows increasingly frantic, it raises an intriguing inquiry: How much anxiety could be prevented by simply silencing notifications?
Final Thoughts on “Drop”
With its 95-minute runtime, “Drop” knows precisely when to call it a night. While it may not break new ground in the genre, it successfully revitalizes a classic horror narrative for a contemporary audience.
“Drop” is a Universal Pictures release with a PG-13 rating for strong violent content, suicide, some strong language, and sexual references. Rating: Two and a half stars out of four.
In a world where moviegoers crave thrills and chills, “Drop” manages to keep audiences hooked, proving that there’s still plenty of suspense to be found even in our hyper-connected age. So, the next time your phone lights up, you might want to think twice before answering.
