Christopher Landon, renowned for weaving horror with humor, steps into a new realm with his latest film, Drop, proving once more that thrill and comedy can dance admirably together. While Landon has built his reputation with chilling yet amusing tales like Freaky and Happy Death Day, Drop sidesteps into the gripping narrative of a high-concept thriller, exploring what happens when a quirky sense of humor intersects with suspenseful storytelling.
A Night to Remember
The plot unfurls with Violet, portrayed by Meghann Fahy, as a single mother embarking on a first date with photographer Henry, played by Brandon Sklenar. Violet’s evening takes a sinister twist when she becomes victim to a threatening series of messages with a chilling ultimatum — kill Henry, or her son dies. As Violet navigates the tightrope between safeguarding her child and moral integrity, audiences are flung into a whirlwind of emotions.
Swiftly Built Foundations
Landon’s expertise shines as he deftly constructs Violet’s world and relationships within the film’s early moments, setting the stage at the swanky Palate restaurant. The narrative’s tight focus on Violet’s backstory with her sister and son lends depth, ensuring that the viewer’s heart is tethered to her plight. As Violet’s date with Henry begins, the chemistry between the actors draws the audience further into this intricate web of deceit and intrigue.
Texts with a Voice
Challenges often arise when depicting text message-driven plots on screen, yet Drop smartly sidesteps this potential pitfall. By integrating these ominous texts seamlessly into the visual narrative, enveloping and confronting Violet as they appear boldly on screen, the film sustains its momentum without losing viewers in a struggle to read tiny screens.
A Balancing Act
Though Landon is a maestro of suspense, he peppers Drop with moments of levity, ensuring the film remains enjoyable without crossing into overwhelming darkness. By infusing the experience with musical cues from unexpected sources like Pink Fong’s Baby Shark, and charmingly quirky characters among the restaurant staff, Landon delivers a nuanced balance of tension and humor.
Tension: A Double-Edged Sword
The ratcheting suspense captivates in the film’s first two acts, however, the reveal of the mastermind behind Violet’s torment doesn’t quite hit the right note, and the film’s climactic shift outside the restaurant somewhat diminishes the intensity previously built. Nevertheless, the strength lies in its beginning and middle acts, buoyed by Fahy’s captivating performance, making the ride worthwhile despite its ending fumbles.
Drop may ruffle the feathers of hardcore horror enthusiasts expecting Landon’s usual fare, but as a thriller stepping out with charisma, it delivers an enriching experience replete with chuckles and gasps in ample measure.
*Drop* lands in UK cinemas from 11th April 2025.
