‘Depravity’ (2024) Movie Review - Who Survives?

“Depravity” plunges its characters and viewers into a relentless nightmare, blending psychological horror with intense suspense. The film follows Grace and her roommates as they become embroiled in a terrifying ordeal after suspecting their quiet, mysterious neighbor of being a serial killer. What begins as curiosity and suspicion quickly spiral into chaos when the group decides to break into his apartment, hoping to uncover proof of his crimes. Instead, they stumble upon something far more chilling—a hidden fortune of stolen art, locked away behind layers of secrecy.

The discovery, however, is just the beginning of their nightmare. The moment they step inside the neighbor's apartment, it becomes clear that they’ve crossed a line they can never come back from. The film masterfully transforms their curiosity into regret, as they soon find themselves caught in the web of a sadistic game of survival. The neighbor revealed to be far more dangerous and calculating than they ever imagined, has anticipated their every move, turning his apartment into a death trap where each room harbors unimaginable horrors.

What sets “Depravity” apart from typical thrillers is its claustrophobic atmosphere. Director Paul Tamasay makes full use of confined spaces, dim lighting, and eerie silences, heightening the sense of dread as Grace and her friends navigate the labyrinth of terror. Every corner of the apartment hides new threats, be it disturbing art installations, torture devices, or cryptic messages that taunt their fading hopes of escape. The tension is palpable, with each twist pulling the audience deeper into the psychological torment the characters face.

The real hook of “Depravity” lies in its ability to make the viewer feel the helplessness and paranoia of its characters. Grace, portrayed with raw vulnerability and fierce determination, leads the charge in trying to outsmart the killer. Her transformation from curious neighbor to desperate survivor anchors the film emotionally, making her fight for survival resonate deeply. The rest of the cast complements her journey with strong performances, each character grappling with their own fears and moral dilemmas.

Victoria Justice, Devon Ross, and Taylor John Smith deliver commendable performances, each bringing a unique energy and depth to their roles. Victoria Justice, in particular, shines as the determined and resourceful Grace, portraying her character’s arc from cautious suspicion to full-blown terror with convincing emotion. Her ability to switch between vulnerability and fierce resilience makes her performance stand out, anchoring much of the film’s tension and emotional weight.

Devon Ross masterfully captures the rising panic and uncertainty, making the audience feel his growing helplessness as the horrors close in. Taylor John Smith rounds out the trio with a strong performance as the protective and logical figure in the group.

Together, these actors create a believable group dynamic, allowing the audience to invest in their survival as they face increasingly horrifying situations. Their chemistry and individual performances enhance the suspense, making their fight for survival all the more gripping and emotionally resonant.

In the end, “Depravity” keeps viewers on edge with its unpredictable storyline, where survival is not guaranteed, and outsmarting the killer becomes the ultimate challenge. It’s a gripping horror-thriller that plays on primal fears, leaving you haunted long after the credits roll.

Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times