Based on the beloved 2015 PlayStation horror game, Sandberg's adaptation captures the game's butterfly-effect survival mechanics in a film that's frequently inventive and occasionally brilliant.
Playing the Game
The Until Dawn game was notable for refusing to designate safe characters � anyone could die based on player choices, creating genuine investment in every decision. The film translates this through a supernatural loop structure that allows survivors to experience different iterations of the same nightmare. Sandberg navigates the tonal demands � horror that must be frightening and self-aware simultaneously � with reasonable dexterity. The ensemble is strong, practical monster design is excellent, and several set pieces genuinely deliver.
"Until Dawn successfully translates the game's best quality � its structural playfulness with horror conventions � into cinematic language."
� IGN FilmThe Verdict
A solid game adaptation that fans of the original will appreciate and newcomers can enjoy cold. Better than most video game films by some margin. Peter Stormare is doing something magnificent in the corner of every scene.
Based on the beloved 2015 PlayStation horror game, Sandberg's adaptation captures the game's butterfly-effect survival mechanics in a film that's frequently inventive and occasionally brilliant.