oddity (film, 2024) ↑

Oddity wastes no time drawing the viewer in as we learn of a disturbing home invasion that results in the death of Dani, the twin sister of our protagonist, Darcy. Though over half a decade has passed, Darcy remains convinced the true culprit was never caught. She embarks on her own investigation, seeking answers and revenge. What unfolded from there was a deliciously creepy atmospheric chiller that pays homage to classics of yesteryear while carving its own haunting identity.

One of the elements I most appreciated was how McCarthy took his time establishing the tone and setting. From the isolated countryside home undergoing renovation to the oddities shop Darcy works in, every detail was purposefully crafted to unsettle. Long takes lingered on places or objects that may seem innocuous but took on a sinister edge the longer the camera held. Dark corners and shadows became places where something could lurk just out of view. It reminded me a bit of early Polanski films like Repulsion or Rosemary's Baby, where the oppressive surroundings gradually work their way under your skin.

The cast is small but incredibly effective, particularly Carolyn Bracken in her dual roles as the twins. She brings an ethereal yet emotionally wounded quality to Darcy that is utterly compelling. Her scenes investigating the home and interacting with Yana (also well-played by Caroline Menton) are definitely highlights. But the whole ensemble does admirable work elevating the material with naturalism and nuance. Even potentially one-note characters like the unhinged Olin, played by Tadhg Murphy, feel grounded and leave an impression. It's always refreshing to see talented actors elevate low-budget genre fare.

While certain plot points or reveals may not surprise genre-savvy viewers, I appreciated how Darcy's investigations gradually peeled back layer upon layer, like peeling an onion, to reveal deeper mysteries. Her journey resonated on an emotional level as she sought justice for her murdered sister. And I have to give major props to some incredibly unsettling images and sequences that served as effective jolts within the suspended dread, like a certain unsettling gift Darcy presents.

On a technical level, McCarthy shows real skill with composition, lighting, and audio design. Darkness and silence become weapons used to dial-up tension. An especially impressive feat given the apparent constraints of an independent production. It has a nightmarish yet beautifully crafted quality that puts me in mind of old English witchcraft films like Blood on Satan's Claw or even Hammer horror entries. While not wholly original, it felt like a loving homage to classics of the genre from decades past.

All in all, Oddity proved a highly watchable and unnerving slow-burn ghost story that gets under your skin through the atmosphere and strong performers elevating the material. At under two hours, it maintains suspense without overstaying its welcome. While some reveal or character beats won't surprise seasoned genre fans, it's clear Damian McCarthy has a strong gift for crafting a compelling, creepy ambiance. I'd happily check out more output from him in the future. It gets my strong recommendation for fans of atmospheric supernatural chills in the vein of vintage contemporaries.