A Quiet Place: Day One Review

It’s true that following up a near-perfect film like A Quiet Place is no easy feat. The first film set such a high bar with its inventive use of silence to build tension and its emotionally charged family drama. It was a unique blend of suspense and heart that resonated deeply with audiences.

The sequel, A Quiet Place Part II, managed to build on that foundation by expanding the universe and exploring new facets of the world Krasinski had created. While it might not have reached the same heights as its predecessor, it offered valuable insights and developments that enriched the story. The introduction of new characters and settings added depth to the narrative, and the new revelations about the monsters kept the tension high.

The addition of water as a weakness for the creatures was a smart move, broadening the scope of the threat and giving the characters new strategies for survival. It’s interesting how different films handle their sequels and prequels—A Quiet Place Part II didn’t just rehash the original but instead broadened the world, which can be a strong approach for maintaining interest and relevance.

When it comes to a prequel, which delves into the origins of the monsters or the early days of the apocalypse, it’s a different challenge. It strikes a balance between providing new information and preserving the mystery that made the first film so compelling. It offers a fresh perspectives on the world and the initial impact of the invasion. If it did not, it ran the risk of diluting the intrigue of the original.

The sequel did a commendable job of continuing the story while adding new elements. What made the A Quiet Place films so compelling: their ability to maintain tension and emotional investment despite, or perhaps because of, the minimal exposition about the monsters. By focusing on the characters and their survival rather than delving into extensive lore or backstory, the films preserve an air of mystery and immediacy that keeps audiences on edge.

In A Quiet Place: Day One, this approach seems to be preserved well. The decision to show the monsters' nests but not delve deeply into their origins or nature aligns with the series' philosophy of keeping the creatures enigmatic. It’s a smart move because the unknown often retains a certain level of suspense that could be diminished by over-explaining.

The prequel’s focus on a new set of characters and a more personal story mirrors the successful formula of the original films. By creating characters who are relatable and vulnerable, the film ensures that the audience remains deeply invested in their fate. This personal stake is what makes the survival horror elements hit harder, especially in a world where anyone can be taken out at any moment.

The comparison to the Star Wars prequels is apt. Expanding on the Force with midichlorians or showing the inner workings of the Jedi Order did shift the way we perceive these elements, often detracting from their mystique. Similarly, the A Quiet Place films maintain their edge by focusing on immediate, character-driven drama rather than getting bogged down in unnecessary exposition.

Ultimately, the success of Day One in capturing the essence of what made the original films effective lies in its ability to deliver a gripping, emotionally charged narrative without overcomplicating the central mystery of the creatures.

Sammy’s character in A Quiet Place: Day One adds a rich layer to the film's emotional depth. Lupita Nyong’o’s portrayal of Sammy, a woman facing the end of her life with cancer, sets up a poignant narrative thread. Her bitterness and anger are palpable, and her initial reluctance to engage with others highlights her isolation and sense of despair.

The introduction of her love for New York City pizza serves as a powerful symbol of her remaining desires and the joy she clings to in her final days. It’s a relatable and humanizing detail that contrasts sharply with the grim reality of her situation. Her decision to join the bus trip into the city for the sake of experiencing this simple pleasure underscores the idea that even in the face of impending mortality, people hold onto small, meaningful moments of joy.

This setup not only enriches Sammy’s character but also provides a sense of urgency and depth to her actions. Her journey, driven by her last chance to enjoy something she loves, becomes all the more impactful within the chaotic and dangerous world of the film. The contrast between her personal struggle and the external threat posed by the monsters heightens the emotional stakes, making her story both heartbreaking and compelling.

As the film progresses, revealing more about Sammy’s background and motivations adds further layers to her character. It’s often these personal stories and individual struggles that make horror films resonate on a deeper level, and Sammy’s journey is a prime example of how character development can enhance the overall impact of a film.

The encounter with Henry (Djimon Hounsou), who was introduced in Part II, ties the prequel to the broader universe of the series. Seeing him here adds a layer of continuity and context, linking different threads of the franchise.

The dynamic between Sammy (Lupita Nyong’o) and Eric (Joseph Quinn) is a highlight of the film, adding layers of emotional depth and a touch of humor amid the chaos. Their journey through the city in search of pizza, while also unraveling Sammy’s past, provides a unique contrast to the relentless tension of the alien threat.

Nyong’o’s performance is clearly a standout, reinforcing her remarkable range as an actress. Her portrayal of Sammy not only captures the gravity of her situation but also brings a profound sense of humanity to the film. Quinn’s role as Eric, especially given his minimal dialogue, demonstrates his ability to convey significant emotional depth, which enriches the film’s narrative. Their partnership, along with the inclusion of Sam’s cat, Frodo, adds a personal touch that enhances the overall story.

Director Michael Sarnoski’s influence, coming from his work on Pig, adds a fresh artistic flair to the film. The contrast between beauty and terror, set against the urban landscape of a city in ruins, creates a visually compelling and atmospheric experience. The film’s brisk runtime and focused storytelling ensure it remains engaging without overstaying its welcome, which is often a struggle.

A Quiet Place: Day One is now streaming on Paramount+.

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