‘The Girl in the Pool’ (2024) Movie Review - A Birthday Bash Gone Wrong

"The Girl in the Pool," directed by Dakota Gorman, is an intriguing ride into the depths of domestic turmoil and the secrets that unravel in a single night. Freddie Prinze Jr. stars as Tom, a seemingly perfect family man whose life spirals out of control when his mistress is found dead in his pool on his birthday. Desperate to protect his family, he hides the body, setting off a chain of events that threaten to destroy his carefully constructed life.

The film excels in its portrayal of a man on the brink of collapse. Prinze Jr. delivers a compelling performance, capturing the fear and desperation of a character whose actions become increasingly erratic. Monica Potter plays Tom's wife, adding depth and tension as she begins to suspect something is amiss. Kevin Pollak, as her father, injects a sense of foreboding and suspicion that keeps the audience on edge.

Dakota Gorman's direction shines in her ability to maintain suspense and build tension throughout the film. The confined setting of the family home adds to the claustrophobic feel, making every moment fraught with danger. The script, written by Jackson Reid Williams, smartly balances between thriller and drama, ensuring the story stays engaging without becoming melodramatic.

One of the film's standout features is its ability to blend the mundane with the macabre. The birthday party setting contrasts sharply with the dark secret Tom is hiding, creating a jarring yet effective juxtaposition. The interactions between the characters, particularly during the party, are laced with undercurrents of tension and unease.

However, "The Girl in the Pool" is not without its flaws. The plot, while gripping, occasionally dips into predictability. Some of the twists can be seen coming from a mile away, which might disappoint viewers looking for a completely unpredictable experience. Additionally, a few supporting characters feel underdeveloped, serving more as plot devices than fully fleshed-out individuals.

The film's pacing is another area where it falters slightly. The middle section drags a bit, losing some of the initial momentum. This could have been tightened to maintain the high stakes established early on. Despite these issues, the film manages to recover and deliver a satisfying climax.

Visually, "The Girl in the Pool" makes effective use of its suburban setting. The cinematography captures the eerie tranquility of the neighborhood, making the events unfolding in the home feel even more unsettling. The use of shadows and lighting enhances the film's dark tone, emphasizing the themes of concealment and revelation.

The soundtrack complements the film well, with a score that heightens the suspense without overpowering the scenes. It subtly underscores the emotional beats, adding to the overall atmosphere of dread and anticipation.

In summary, "The Girl in the Pool" is a solid thriller that offers a mix of compelling performances, effective direction, and a gripping storyline. While it has its predictable moments and pacing issues, the film's strengths outweigh its weaknesses. It's a tense, engaging watch that keeps you hooked until the very end. If you're in the mood for a domestic thriller that delves into the chaos of secrets and lies, this film is definitely worth a look.

Final Score- [6/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
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Publisher at Midgard Times