The first thing I noticed was that this movie was almost two hours long and that there would probably be a lot of filler before it reaches its climax. But what do I know lol. I didn’t even really know what the story was about. Based on the trailer I figured it was a typical possession story. Well, I was kind of right. A possession tale but definitely not typical.
In the initial scenes we’re shown what looks to be some sort of health facility for children and there is one particular child that has the attention of all the doctors. They never show the child but they do show the…carnage. Shortly after we’re introduced to the main character Madison. Plagued with an abusive husband and terrorizing force, we quickly realize that Madison may very well be in danger…or is it all in her head?
This movie was a slow burn. The initial scenes were jam packed with action and it quickly plateaued. I couldn’t completely grasp what the film was really about and where it was going but James Wan, little by little, gives us pieces of the puzzle that ultimately leads to an existing conclusion. Initially I was pissed that they weren’t showing the death scenes but that jail scene made up for that! Woooooo.
I hesitate to talk about the reveal of the killer because then this review will be full of spoilers. I for one did not see what was coming. I was completely surprised at the reveal and I would just end this review by saying that you may feel like the middle of the movie is slow and boring or that it doesn’t make sense but trust me, pay attention and stick around because the pay off in the end is well worth the wait. I highly recommend this movie for the ending alone! I think James Wan did something special here and whether you enjoy the movie or not he’s going to get a lot of hits off this film.
Malignant is currently in theaters and streaming on HBOMax until October 10th.
Sonia Rosario
Wife, mother, horror lover, podcaster. I review movies for the love of horror.
