‘The Curse of the Necklace’ (2024) Movie Review - Gear Up for Mid-Week Horror

This is one of the few films that have their storyline hidden in the title itself. In "The Curse of the Necklace", set in 1960, the Davis family finds themselves at the crossroads of personal turmoil and supernatural danger. Laura Davis, played by Sarah Lind, is a mother attempting to rebuild her life after separating from her husband Frank (Henry Thomas). Frank's volatile behavior, exacerbated by his drinking, has torn the family apart, leaving Laura to navigate her new reality as a working mother. Returning to her job as a nurse, Laura tries to provide a sense of normalcy for her two daughters, 16-year-old Judy (Madeleine McGraw) and 11-year-old Ellen (Violet McGraw).

The movie creates a compelling atmosphere of tension, not only from the strained family dynamics but also through the eerie undertone of something much darker at play. As Frank, driven by remorse and a desperate desire to reunite his fractured family, presents Laura with an exquisite antique necklace, the film shifts gears from a domestic drama to a sinister supernatural thriller. The necklace, seemingly a symbol of reconciliation, harbors the spirit of a long-dead and malevolent boy. Its curse soon tightens its grip on the unsuspecting Davis family.

What sets "The Curse of the Necklace" apart from typical horror films is the way it intertwines the emotional struggle of the Davis family with the creeping dread of the supernatural. Sarah Lind delivers a grounded and emotional performance as Laura, a woman torn between protecting her daughters and the lingering affection for her estranged husband. Both Violet and Madeleine McGraw shine in their respective roles, bringing authenticity to the film's portrayal of sibling dynamics—particularly how each girl processes the family's upheaval.

The pacing of the film ramps up as the true nature of the cursed necklace is revealed. Director Marcus Halberstram deftly weaves subtle clues into the narrative, building suspense without relying on cheap scares. Instead, the horror comes from the psychological tension within the family, heightened by the ever-present threat of the supernatural force now haunting their home. The film balances moments of quiet unease with sudden, chilling revelations, keeping the audience engaged and guessing at the necklace’s ultimate power.

The underlying theme of "The Curse of the Necklace" speaks to the dangers of unresolved guilt and the consequences of trying to mend broken things with quick fixes. Frank’s attempt to repair his marriage with a material gift ultimately backfires, symbolizing how the necklace—though beautiful and seemingly harmless—acts as a catalyst for chaos.

The actors have truly outdone themselves, delivering exceptional performances that enhance the eerie atmosphere of the film. Each cast member skillfully embodies their character, bringing a palpable sense of unease that keeps the tension alive throughout. Their ability to maintain the spooky vibe, whether through subtle expressions, chilling dialogue delivery, or tense interactions, adds depth to the horror, making every scene feel authentically haunting. It's clear that the actors not only understood the tone of the film but also elevated it, ensuring the audience remains on edge from start to finish. Horror movie fans this is a great watch.

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