A Quiet Place: Day One - A Tense, Claustrophobic Horror Film

The latest installment in the A Quiet Place franchise, A Quiet Place: Day One, is a masterclass in building tension and creating a sense of claustrophobia. Set in New York City, the film takes place as the alien invasion begins, and follows a hospice patient named Samira, or Sam (Lupita Nyong’o), as she fights to survive alongside her unlikely companion, Eric (Joseph Quinn).

A desolate New York City

What’s fascinating about this chapter is that it dispenses with the need for world-building. It’s assumed that the audience is familiar with the concept of the aliens and their strengths and weaknesses, which makes the tension all the more palpable. As Sam and Eric navigate the treacherous landscape, the audience is one step ahead, knowing the dangers that lurk around every corner.

The film’s horror is legitimately achieved, relying on suspense and tension rather than cheap jump scares or gore. It’s a testament to writer/director Michael Sarnoski’s skill that he’s able to create such a sense of unease without resorting to cheap tricks.

Lupita Nyong’o shines as Sam

Sarnoski’s direction is reminiscent of his work on 2021’s Pig, allowing the characters to breathe and establish themselves without the need for excessive exposition. Nyong’o and Quinn have a natural chemistry, and their bond is forged through shared experience and understanding.

One of the standout elements of the film is the presence of Frodo, Sam’s support animal. This remarkable cat is more than just a comforting presence - it’s a guardian angel, watching over Sam as she navigates the wasteland of alien-devastated New York.

Frodo, the hero of the film

A Quiet Place: Day One is a superb horror film that successfully takes its place alongside the earlier entries in the series. With its tense atmosphere, strong performances, and clever direction, it’s a must-see for fans of the franchise and horror enthusiasts alike.

A Quiet Place: Day One poster

A Quiet Place: Day One - A Solid, Scary Horror Film

A Quiet Place: Day One is a masterclass in building tension and creating a sense of claustrophobia. With its strong performances, clever direction, and legitimately scary horror, it’s a must-see for fans of the franchise and horror enthusiasts alike.