Directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, the filmmakers behind "Ready or Not" and the two most recent "Scream" movies, "Abigail" is a bloodthirsty vampire horror film starring "Scream" queen Melissa Barrera.
The vampire-heist thriller begins with a meticulously planned abduction of 12-year-old ballerina Abigail (Alisha Weir), whose father is a notorious crime lord. The kidnappers, expecting a hefty ransom for her return, must keep her safe for 24 hours. The team behind the kidnapping includes Frank (Dan Stevens), a former cop with a strategic mind; Joey (Melissa Barrera), a medic and Abigail's caretaker; Peter (Kevin Durand), a strong yet affable enforcer; Sammy (Kathryn Newton), the skilled hacker; Dean (the late Angus Cloud), a cool-headed wheelman; and Rickles (William Catlett), an ex-military sharpshooter.
As they settle in for the night, the team's plans quickly spiral into chaos. What they didn't account for was that their hostage, Abigail, is entangled in a darker, bloodier underworld, where vampires lurk. The once straightforward kidnapping plot turns into a blood-soaked nightmare as the group finds themselves battling supernatural foes in a fight for their lives. Now, the kidnappers must pivot from their initial heist strategy to an unexpected struggle for survival against these ferocious vampires, leading to a night of unexpected alliances, gory battles, and harrowing escapes.
Tiny ballerina Abigail is no ordinary child; she's a deadly vampire who starts picking off her kidnappers one by one, leaving a trail of blood in her wake. "I like to play with my food," she says with a chilling smile, flashing her rows of razor-sharp, yellowed teeth as she toys with her prey.
Melissa Barrera, known for her lead role in "Scream" movies, playing the role of Joey. Despite being part of a criminal crew, Joey exhibits empathy and compassion, giving her character a unique emotional depth amidst the chaos of the story. Barrera's portrayal is especially compelling, showcasing Joey's vulnerabilities and backstory with a nuanced touch. Unlike her more intense and edgy role as Samantha Carpenter in "Scream," Joey is a more grounded and relatable character.
In one particularly poignant scene, Joey has a phone call where her vulnerability and internal conflict are laid bare. This scene captures Barrera's ability to convey a range of emotions, adding complexity to her character. This emotional resonance is what makes Joey such a crucial part of the narrative, anchoring the audience as the plot unfolds with unexpected twists.
Dan Stevens, who clearly enjoys playing the sleazy yet sharp Frank. But Stevens isn't the only scene-stealer in the movie. Kathryn Newton stands out with her infectious charisma and witty line delivery, especially in scenes with Angus Cloud. However, Kevin Durand's lovable but dim-witted enforcer, Peter, nearly steals the show, becoming the butt of jokes in the most delightful way.
When Alisha Weir's Abigail fully embraces her vampiric side, her performance is both fierce and nuanced, indicating that she's an actor to watch. Her transformation from an innocent ballerina to a monstrous force adds an extra layer of depth to the story, blending horror and dark humor. This diverse and energetic ensemble cast keeps the film engaging from start to finish, ensuring there's never a dull moment.
What sets these films apart—whether it's "Ready or Not," "Scream," or "Abigail"—is their capacity to capture the emotional tone of the times through their gritty, working-class heroines. Characters like Grace from "Ready or Not," Sam from "Scream," and now Joey from "Abigail" represent a particular zeitgeist, blending toughness with vulnerability.
Joey, just like Grace and Sam, is no stranger to hardship. Life has left her weary and scarred, yet she remains resolute, determined to push through and survive against all odds. Despite being battered and bloodied, she finds a small measure of hope in a world that often feels hopeless, positioning her as a final girl who inspires and captivates the audience. Her journey from vulnerability to strength reflects a broader narrative that resonates with viewers, illustrating why these films continue to resonate and hold a special place in contemporary culture.
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"Abigail" delivers a ferociously creative approach to vampire gore, taking viewers on a thrill ride that's as razor-sharp as its fanged characters. Although the pacing can seem deliberate as it slowly escalates toward full-blown madness, the superb ensemble cast ensures that every twist and turn is captivating. The combination of intense vampire action and a talented cast makes this film an entertaining experience.