Beneath Us All Review: A Solid Indie Horror Film!

January 22, 2025 Surya Komal 0 Comments Beneath Us All

Director Harley Wallen and writer Bret Miller reunite in Beneath Us All, a chilling and atmospheric blend of family drama and ancient horror. The story centers on Julie, a foster child navigating a difficult home life, whose discovery of a mysterious Norse artifact sets off a chain of terrifying events. Awakening an ancient being with a sinister past, Julie becomes entangled in a battle between her protective instincts and the dark forces unleashed, creating a tense and gripping narrative.

What really stood out to me was the way Julie’s character develops throughout the film. At first, she’s a vulnerable foster child, caught in the struggle between wanting her own freedom and feeling the need to shield her younger siblings from a toxic environment. As the story unfolds, Julie grows stronger, and her resilience really shines, especially in her relationship with Frey.

Her protective instincts towards her foster siblings are clear, and the tension with characters like Todd and Janelle adds depth to the emotional challenges she’s facing at home. Rebecca’s support helps Julie work through her inner conflict, offering a steadying presence amid all the chaos.

Furthermore, Beneath Us All delves into the complexities of family, resilience, and moral choices. Julie’s journey reflects the struggles of protecting loved ones while confronting personal demons. The film also explores the impact of trauma and survival. Uniquely, it blends traditional vampire lore with elements of Norse mythology, introducing Frey as a creature with ancient, mythical origins, adding depth and intrigue to the already familiar vampire narrative.

Angelina Danielle Cama gives a compelling performance as Julie, balancing innocence and inner strength with subtlety. Yan Birch excels as Frey, bringing an unsettling presence to the character with his eerie portrayal of the ancient being. Sean Whalen and Maria Olsen are effective as Todd and Janelle, portraying the abusive and emotionally distant foster parents with unsettling conviction. Their performances add a layer of tension, making their roles both despicable and strangely relatable.

The movie shines in its cinematography, with moody visuals and skillful use of lighting that enhances the eerie atmosphere. The dimly lit scenes and foggy filter evoke a sense of dread, contributing to the film’s unsettling tone. Wallen’s direction shows marked improvement, with tighter pacing and more refined character development than in his previous works.

The film successfully blends suspense with supernatural horror, maintaining a slow-burn tension that complements its dramatic focus while delivering chilling, supernatural moments.

Overall, Beneath Us All stands out with strong performances, moody cinematography, and a fresh take on vampire lore. The way it digs into character development and explores deeper themes really elevates the horror elements. That said, there are a few pacing hiccups that might throw off the flow at times. Still, these are minor issues in what’s a solid indie horror film. With its blend of drama and suspense, it’s sure to resonate with fans who enjoy atmospheric, character-driven horror stories.