As someone who never ventured far into horror movies, I recently found myself drawn to the genre after experiencing the chills of “The Nun” and “Abigail” on the big screen.
This newfound appreciation sparked a curiosity for the classics, and “The First Omen” (2024) seemed like the perfect gateway since jumping directly onto the Omen franchise felt like an interesting way to move forward after this. Theatrical experiences indeed change everything!
This prequel to the 1976 film dives into the origin story of Damien, the Antichrist. The narrative follows Margaret, a young woman thrust into the heart of a terrifying conspiracy as she uncovers the dark forces orchestrating the birth of evil incarnate.
A lore-rich introduction
The film excels at establishing the franchise’s foundation. It serves as a fantastic introduction for newcomers like myself, leaving me eager to explore the original films. The overall experience is a delightful mix of Classic and Modern filmmaking techniques and aesthetics. The chilling atmosphere evokes classic horror while maintaining a stylish edge reminiscent of old French cinema. The richness of horror concepts derived from Christianity and the Church is truly fascinating.
The editing choices are particularly noteworthy. Abrupt cuts keep you on the edge of your seat, building suspense masterfully. A standout scene that I would like to point out happens during the climax. There’s fire, Margaret’s terrified gaze at a demonic door, and a chilling shift to a wide shot of the entire burning wall. It’s both unsettling and beautiful.
Another interesting editing choice was the scene where Margaret interacts with Paolo at the bar. They both are dancing when she suddenly licks his face followed by a quick cut to her room. Initially, I thought this might be a way to avoid overly graphic content, but the payoff later in the film was very effective.
Nell Tiger Free delivers a captivating performance as Margaret. Her calm demeanor and unwavering righteousness stand out amidst the chaos, perfectly capturing the essence of a 1970s heroine. The scene following the car crash is one of my favorites. Margaret’s emergence from the wreckage, followed by the unsettling realization of her womb’s growth, is masterfully portrayed. The combination of her laughter, intense stares, and body movements is truly chilling and perfectly captures the character’s descent into a horrifying state.
Nicole Sorace portrays Carlita with a chilling creepiness that lingers long after the credits roll. But Carlita also feels like a victim. It was awesome to see her save Margareta, and even though I’m unsure of her relevance in original films, I’m interested in seeing her character return.
The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Sônia Braga’s dominant presence as Sister Silva and the overall performances amplifying the film’s impact along with
The camerawork is impressive, particularly evident in the beautifully shot scene where Luz is transformed into a nun. The “sexy, serious” background music, as you describe it, adds a unique layer to the film, perfectly complementing the atmosphere. As mentioned earlier, the editing is a highlight, building suspense and adding a touch of the unexpected.
Arkasha Stevenson’s masterful direction deserves praise. He seamlessly blends classic horror elements with a modern aesthetic, creating a truly unsettling and captivating experience.
Surprisingly strange omens
“The First Omen” is a surprisingly weird, creepy, and utterly amazing. It leaves you wanting more, eager to delve deeper into the franchise’s lore and witness Damien’s rise. The film cleverly explores the potential for horror within the context of Christianity and the Church.
A perfect 5/5! This is a must-watch for horror fans and newcomers alike. It’s a fantastic introduction to the franchise, boasting a well-crafted story, exceptional performances, and a masterfully unsettling atmosphere.
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