Watch The Damned

The Damned is a 2013 horror film which follows a group of Americans, businessman David Reynolds (played by Peter Facinelli), his daughter Jill Reynolds (played by Nathalia Ramos) and David's fiancee Lauren (played by Sophia Myles) as they travel to Colombia to retrieve David's sister, who has been detained for drug-related charges. The trip quickly becomes a nightmare when the group's car crashes and they find themselves stranded in the middle of nowhere. They stumble upon an abandoned mansion which they hope will provide them with shelter and a means to call for help, but instead they awaken an ancient evil that resides within.

The movie is directed by Victor Garcia and written by David Higgins, Francisco Rodriguez and Richard D'Ovidio. The Damned is a well-paced and suspenseful film that combines elements of horror, mystery and thriller. The cinematography is dark and moody, with the setting of the old mansion perfectly encapsulating the sense of foreboding and danger that haunts the characters. The special effects and use of practical effects are impressive, giving a realistic edge to the supernatural elements of the story.

Peter Facinelli's performance as David Reynolds is commendable, displaying a father's determination to protect his daughter at all costs. Nathalia Ramos's portrayal of Jill Reynolds is equally impressive, as she struggles to come to terms with the sudden dangers she faces. Sophia Myles as Lauren is convincing as a woman attempting to maintain control of the situation, even as it spirals out of control. The interactions between the trio are natural and believable, adding to the realism of the story.

The supporting characters are also noteworthy, particularly the caretaker, who adds an eerie vibe to the movie. The Damned also features a strong female character in the form of Ana Maria (played by Carolina Guerra), a local woman who aids the Americans in their quest to survive. Her character is a refreshing addition to the story, breaking the stereotype of the helpless female victim.

One of the highlights of The Damned is its ability to keep its audience guessing. The plot twists and turns, leaving the viewer unsure what to expect next. The characters must confront the malevolent entity that haunts the mansion, which becomes increasingly difficult as more and more secrets are uncovered. The revelations are both satisfying and unpredictable, proving to be a refreshing break from the usual tropes found in horror films.

The film's pacing is handled well, with a gradual build-up of tension that keeps the audience on edge. While there are moments where the film drags slightly, it never loses its sense of purpose or direction. The sense of dread that permeates the mansion is palpable, making for a truly immersive experience.

In conclusion, The Damned is a well-crafted and effective horror film that delivers on its promises. Its strong performances, intriguing plot and effective use of suspense make it a must-see for fans of the genre. Victor Garcia's direction and the fantastic cinematography combine to create a foreboding atmosphere that draws the audience in and keeps them on the edge of their seats. While it may not reinvent the wheel in terms of story, The Damned is a solid and entertaining entry into the horror genre.

The Damned is a 2013 thriller with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.2 and a MetaScore of 39.