A Comprehensive Movie Review of ‘Come Play’

1. Introduction

Come Play is a captivating horror film that takes viewers on a thrilling journey into the world of technology and the supernatural. Directed by Jacob Chase, this movie is based on his 2017 short film titled ‘Larry’. With an intriguing storyline and impressive performances, ‘Come Play’ offers a unique take on the horror genre. This comprehensive movie review will delve into the various aspects of the film, including its plot, characters, and overall impact.

1.1. Overview of the movie

‘Come Play’ is a gripping horror film that takes viewers on a thrilling and chilling journey. Directed by Jacob Chase, the movie tells the story of Oliver, a young boy who finds himself trapped in a world of darkness and terror after encountering a mysterious creature named Larry. As the creature begins to haunt Oliver through his electronic devices, his parents desperately search for a way to save him. With its intense atmosphere, compelling storyline, and solid performances, ‘Come Play’ is a must-watch for horror enthusiasts.

1.2. Background information

The movie ‘Come Play’ is a thrilling horror film released in 2020. It is directed by Jacob Chase and produced by Andrew Rona and Alex Heineman. The screenplay is based on Chase’s 2017 short film ‘Larry’. The movie centers around a young boy named Oliver, who is non-verbal and communicates through a mobile app. However, his life takes a terrifying turn when a mysterious creature named Larry starts to haunt him through electronic devices. The film explores themes of loneliness, technology dependence, and the power of imagination. ‘Come Play’ received mixed reviews from critics, but it garnered praise for its atmospheric tension and impressive performances. In this comprehensive movie review, we will delve into the various aspects of the film, including its plot, characters, cinematography, and overall impact.

1.3. Plot synopsis

Oliver is a lonely young boy who struggles to make friends due to his nonverbal autism. He finds solace in his electronic devices and spends most of his time engrossed in a children’s story app called ‘Misunderstood Monsters’. One day, a mysterious creature named Larry starts communicating with Oliver through the app and seeks to be his friend. However, Larry is not as friendly as he seems. He begins to invade Oliver’s world and terrorize him and his family. As Oliver’s parents and a school therapist try to understand and protect him, they must find a way to get rid of Larry before it’s too late.

1.4. Cast and crew

The cast and crew of ‘Come Play’ have done a remarkable job in bringing this thrilling movie to life. Directed by Jacob Chase, the film features a talented ensemble cast that delivers captivating performances. Azhy Robertson portrays the main character, Oliver, with great depth and conviction. Gillian Jacobs and John Gallagher Jr. excel in their roles as Oliver’s parents, Sarah and Marty. The supporting cast includes Winslow Fegley, Jayden Marine, and Gavin MacIver-Wright, who all contribute to the overall excellence of the film.

Behind the scenes, the crew has also played a crucial role in making ‘Come Play’ a visually stunning and atmospheric experience. The cinematography by Maxime Alexandre beautifully captures the eerie ambiance, while the editing by Gregory Plotkin ensures a seamless flow of storytelling. The haunting musical score composed by Roque Baños adds another layer of intensity to the film.

Together, the cast and crew have created a compelling cinematic experience that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats throughout ‘Come Play’.

1.5. Release date

The movie ‘Come Play’ is a thrilling horror film directed by Jacob Chase. It was released on October 30, 2020. The movie tells the story of Oliver, a young boy who is lonely and struggles with communication due to his non-verbal autism. One day, he comes across a mysterious children’s book titled ‘Misunderstood Monsters’ and unwittingly unleashes a supernatural creature named Larry, who seeks to befriend Oliver. As Larry becomes more aggressive and terrifying, Oliver’s parents must find a way to save their son from the clutches of this malevolent entity. ‘Come Play’ combines elements of suspense, supernatural horror, and emotional depth to deliver a chilling cinematic experience. The release date of October 30th adds to the atmosphere of the film, making it a perfect choice for Halloween viewing.

2. Cinematography and Visuals

The cinematography and visuals in ‘Come Play’ are visually stunning and effectively contribute to the overall atmosphere of the film. The use of lighting and camera angles creates a sense of suspense and tension, keeping the audience engaged throughout. The color palette is predominantly dark and muted, adding to the eerie and haunting aesthetic of the movie. The visual effects are seamlessly integrated, providing a realistic portrayal of the supernatural elements in the story. The attention to detail in set design and props further enhances the immersive experience for the viewers. Overall, the cinematography and visuals in ‘Come Play’ are top-notch and greatly contribute to the overall impact of the film.

2.1. Visual storytelling

Cinematography and Visuals

The movie ‘Come Play’ delivers a visually stunning experience through its exceptional cinematography and captivating visuals. From the very beginning, the film uses a variety of camera techniques and visual effects to create a sense of unease and suspense. The use of dim lighting and shadows adds to the overall eerie atmosphere, effectively immersing the audience into the world of the story.

The cinematography in ‘Come Play’ is truly remarkable, with each shot carefully composed to enhance the storytelling. The camera movements and angles are thoughtfully chosen to convey emotions and emphasize important moments. Whether it’s a close-up of a character’s face to capture their fear or a wide shot to showcase the vastness of a location, every frame serves a purpose.

Furthermore, the use of visual effects in the movie is seamless and enhances the supernatural elements of the story. The eerie creatures and paranormal occurrences are brought to life through impressive CGI, creating a sense of awe and terror. These visual effects not only add to the overall cinematic experience but also contribute to the narrative, making ‘Come Play’ a visually captivating film.

Overall, the cinematography and visuals in ‘Come Play’ play a crucial role in immersing the audience into the story and enhancing its impact. The combination of exceptional camera work, lighting, and visual effects creates a visually stunning and atmospheric experience that leaves a lasting impression.

2.2. Use of color and lighting

The use of color and lighting in ‘Come Play’ plays a significant role in enhancing the overall cinematic experience. Cinematography and visuals are expertly utilized to create a haunting and unsettling atmosphere throughout the film.

The film predominantly uses dark and muted color palettes, with shades of blue and gray dominating the scenes. This choice of color scheme effectively conveys the eerie and sinister tone of the story, as well as the isolation and fear experienced by the characters. The limited use of vibrant colors adds to the sense of dread and unease, immersing the audience in the unsettling world of the movie.

Furthermore, the lighting techniques used in ‘Come Play’ are crucial in setting the mood and amplifying the suspense. The film extensively utilizes low-key lighting, casting deep shadows and creating a high contrast between light and dark. This technique intensifies the sense of mystery and fear, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats throughout the narrative.

In addition to the color and lighting, the cinematography in ‘Come Play’ is top-notch. The camera angles and movements are carefully executed to enhance the storytelling and create tension. The use of wide shots and long takes effectively captures the vastness of the eerie settings, while close-ups accentuate the characters’ emotions and expressions, heightening the audience’s connection with the story.

Overall, the skillful use of color and lighting, combined with the impressive cinematography, greatly contribute to the captivating and chilling visual experience of ‘Come Play’.

2.3. Set design and locations

The set design and locations in ‘Come Play’ play a crucial role in creating a visually captivating and immersive experience for the audience. From the eerie and atmospheric interiors to the hauntingly beautiful exteriors, every aspect of the film’s environment is meticulously crafted to enhance the overall cinematic experience.

The film primarily takes place in the suburban setting of a modern American neighborhood. The houses are meticulously designed to reflect the characters’ personalities and provide a sense of familiarity to the viewers. The interiors are carefully decorated with a blend of contemporary and vintage elements, creating a realistic and relatable atmosphere.

Furthermore, the film explores various locations beyond the neighborhood, such as a school, a shopping mall, and a forest. Each location is chosen thoughtfully to add depth and diversity to the narrative. The school scenes, for example, are filmed in a way that captures the eerie and isolating feeling of being alone in an empty institution.

The visual aesthetics of ‘Come Play’ are equally impressive. The cinematography techniques employed throughout the film contribute to the overall sense of unease and suspense. The use of low lighting, shadows, and strategic camera angles adds a layer of mystery to the story and enhances the horror elements.

Moreover, the visual effects used to bring the supernatural entity to life are seamlessly integrated into the scenes, creating a seamless blend of practical and digital effects. The creature’s design is both terrifying and visually striking, making it a memorable antagonist.

In conclusion, the set design and locations in ‘Come Play’ are skillfully crafted to create a captivating and immersive world for the audience. Combined with the visually stunning cinematography and effects, these elements contribute to the overall success of the film as a horror-thriller.

2.4. Special effects and CGI

Special effects and CGI play a crucial role in enhancing the overall cinematic experience of a movie. In the case of ‘Come Play’, the use of special effects and CGI elevates the visual quality and brings the story to life in a captivating manner. The movie relies heavily on visual elements to create a sense of suspense and horror, and the special effects contribute significantly to this aspect.

The filmmakers have employed CGI technology to seamlessly blend the real world with the supernatural elements of the story. The use of computer-generated imagery allows for the creation of realistic and convincing creatures and paranormal occurrences. From the terrifying monster to the spine-chilling visuals, the CGI effects in ‘Come Play’ add an extra layer of intensity to the narrative.

Moreover, the special effects in ‘Come Play’ contribute to the overall atmosphere and mood of the film. The use of lighting, shadows, and visual effects help to establish a sense of dread and tension throughout the movie. These effects enhance the storytelling by immersing the audience in a world where the line between reality and the supernatural is blurred.

In conclusion, the special effects and CGI in ‘Come Play’ are instrumental in creating a visually stunning and immersive experience for the viewers. The skillful use of technology enhances the storytelling, adds depth to the characters, and amplifies the suspenseful elements of the film.

2.5. Cinematography techniques

Cinematography and Visuals

When it comes to the visuals of ‘Come Play,’ the cinematography techniques used play a significant role in creating a chilling and immersive experience for the audience. The film utilizes various techniques to enhance the storytelling and heighten the suspense.

One notable technique employed is the use of low-light and shadowy scenes. These dimly lit sequences effectively build tension and create an eerie atmosphere, adding to the overall sense of dread. The strategic placement of light sources and shadows further accentuates the supernatural elements of the story.

Additionally, the film incorporates clever camera angles and movements to convey the perspective and emotions of the characters. Through close-ups, wide shots, and dynamic tracking shots, the audience gets a glimpse into the characters’ fears and vulnerability. These visual choices not only engage the viewer but also intensify the impact of the horror elements.

Furthermore, the color palette used in ‘Come Play’ contributes to the overall mood and tone of the film. The predominantly cool and desaturated colors enhance the feeling of isolation and fear, while occasional pops of vibrant colors add contrast and create visual interest. This contrast helps to emphasize key moments and heighten the suspenseful atmosphere.

Overall, the cinematography techniques employed in ‘Come Play’ effectively capture the essence of the story and enhance the horror experience. The careful use of lighting, camera angles, and color palettes all contribute to creating a visually captivating movie that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

3. Acting and Performances

The acting and performances in ‘Come Play’ were exceptional. The cast delivered compelling and convincing portrayals of their characters, bringing them to life with depth and authenticity. The lead actors showcased their talent, capturing the emotional journey of their respective roles effectively. The chemistry between the characters was palpable, adding an extra layer of believability to the story. The supporting cast also delivered strong performances, contributing to the overall quality of the film. From intense and dramatic moments to subtle and nuanced expressions, the actors displayed a range of skills that enhanced the viewing experience. The performances in ‘Come Play’ were a standout aspect of the movie, elevating it to a higher level.

3.1. Lead actor/actress portrayal

The lead actor and actress in ‘Come Play’ deliver captivating and compelling performances that truly bring the characters to life. Their portrayal of their respective roles is commendable, showcasing their talent and skills as actors. They effectively convey the emotions, complexities, and depth of their characters, making the audience deeply invested in their journey throughout the movie. The chemistry between the lead actor and actress is palpable, adding an extra layer of authenticity to their performances. Their seamless integration into the narrative makes the story more engaging and immersive. Overall, the lead actor and actress in ‘Come Play’ excel in their roles, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

3.2. Supporting cast performances

The supporting cast performances in ‘Come Play’ were noteworthy and added depth to the overall storytelling. Each member of the supporting cast delivered compelling performances that complemented the main characters and enhanced the film’s atmosphere.

One standout performance came from [Actor’s Name], who portrayed [Character’s Name]. Their portrayal was nuanced and brought a sense of vulnerability to the role, making the audience empathize with the character’s struggles.

Another notable supporting performance was by [Actor’s Name], who played [Character’s Name]. Their performance was captivating and added an element of suspense to the narrative. Their chemistry with the main cast was palpable, creating an engaging dynamic on screen.

Furthermore, [Actor’s Name] delivered a memorable performance as [Character’s Name], showcasing their versatility as an actor. Their portrayal was convincing and added depth to the overall storyline.

Overall, the supporting cast in ‘Come Play’ contributed significantly to the film’s success. Their performances elevated the storytelling and made the movie more immersive and enjoyable for the audience.

3.3. Chemistry between the actors

The chemistry between the actors in ‘Come Play’ is one of the standout aspects of the film. The performances delivered by the cast are commendable and contribute greatly to the overall success of the movie. The actors seamlessly interact with each other, creating authentic and believable relationships on screen. Their chemistry enhances the storytelling, making the audience emotionally invested in the characters and their journey. From the lead actors to the supporting cast, each performer brings depth and nuance to their respective roles. Their ability to convey emotions and portray complex characters adds layers of realism to the film. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, resulting in captivating performances that hold the audience’s attention throughout the movie.

3.4. Character development

Character development is a crucial aspect of any movie, and ‘Come Play’ excels in this department. The film presents well-rounded characters that undergo significant growth and transformation throughout the story.

The protagonist, Oliver, is a young boy who struggles with loneliness and isolation due to his nonverbal autism. The movie beautifully captures his journey as he develops a bond with Larry, a mysterious creature from a children’s book. As Oliver’s relationship with Larry deepens, he becomes more confident and finds his voice, both metaphorically and literally.

Oliver’s parents, Sarah and Marty, also experience character development as they navigate the challenges of raising a special needs child. They start off overwhelmed and disconnected, but as the plot unfolds, they learn to communicate better and become more empathetic towards Oliver’s needs.

Furthermore, the supporting characters, such as Oliver’s teacher and classmates, also undergo growth as they confront their fears and prejudices. The film effectively portrays the impact of Oliver’s journey on those around him, highlighting the power of personal transformation.

In terms of acting and performances, the cast of ‘Come Play’ delivers outstanding portrayals of their respective characters. The young actor portraying Oliver brings authenticity and emotional depth to his role, effectively conveying the challenges and triumphs of living with autism. The chemistry between the actors playing Oliver’s parents is palpable, adding depth and realism to their performances.

Additionally, the supporting cast members deliver solid performances, capturing the range of emotions associated with fear, compassion, and personal growth. Their performances contribute to the overall immersive experience of the film.

Overall, ‘Come Play’ showcases impressive character development and outstanding performances, making it a must-watch for both fans of the horror genre and those seeking a heartfelt narrative.

3.5. Emotional impact of performances

The emotional impact of performances in the movie ‘Come Play’ is truly remarkable. The actors’ portrayals of their characters are so powerful and authentic that they leave a lasting impression on the audience. Each performance is filled with raw emotions that evoke a range of feelings, from fear and suspense to empathy and compassion.

The lead actor delivers an outstanding performance, effectively capturing the vulnerability and complexity of his character. His portrayal is so convincing that viewers can’t help but be emotionally invested in his journey. The supporting cast also shines, adding depth and nuance to the overall storytelling.

The performances in ‘Come Play’ are not only impressive in their individuality but also in their ability to work together harmoniously. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, enhancing the authenticity of the relationships portrayed on screen. This cohesive ensemble cast contributes to the overall emotional impact of the film.

Moreover, the performances are enhanced by the skillful direction and cinematography. The director effectively captures the actors’ emotions through close-ups and subtle camera movements, allowing the audience to connect with the characters on a deeper level. The combination of powerful performances and visually striking shots creates a truly immersive and emotionally charged viewing experience.

In conclusion, the emotional impact of performances in ‘Come Play’ is a standout aspect of the movie. The talented cast, skillful direction, and captivating storytelling come together to create a film that leaves a lasting emotional impression on the audience.