In theatres, the movie “Devil,” was released on September 17, 2010, and earned a modest $33.6 Million at the Box Office. It is not an outstanding movie amongst its other peer horror movies. Still, the claustrophobic tension-building scenes make it a must-watch and come under one of the better films of M. Night Shyamalan since “Signs”(2002).
A movie by the once-celebrated M. Shyamalan, whose movies are more on the religious and mythical side, didn’t see much limelight as it was quickly forgotten like most of his films over the recent years. It revolves more around Christianity, morals, and taking responsibilities- basically an AA meeting with the Devil teaching you to take responsibility for your actions. But unfortunately, the movie heavily stinks of M. Shyamalan’s signature style that has been backfiring on him for years now.
About the Movie
It’s a short movie; it runs for just 72 minutes as it follows five people who get stuck in an elevator with different stories they are trying to hide or forget. All heavens break loose when they suddenly find themselves under the judgment of Lucifer as their secrets are revealed one by one.
Each character is scavenged through the movie, and more lies and deceptions are put on the table. Plus, they are stuck in an elevator, which makes it very claustrophobic, and the characters are forced to face their demons.
Stream or Skip?
It garnered a humble 49% at Tomato meter and a 43% audience score, and many critics gave a negative review for the film as the movie is in some parts predictable. However, sudden twists and jump scared will catch you off guard but still underperforms its potential. All the characters having back story could have been used to build the characters better, but the small time frame of the movie really rushed it, and all the characters became spread and lacked depth.
The movie was written and produced by M. Night Shyamalan, who has proven to be a much better storyteller than a director gave his director seat to Erick Dowle. Although the movie has nothing new and extraordinary to offer, it is a good watch in its old-fashion horror genre to watch on a lazy Saturday night.
Where to Watch “Devil” in 2022?
The Devil is available on many online streaming sites, including iTunes, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and Netflix (monthly subscription of $9.99) for a monthly or weekly subscription.
Other Movie by M. Shyamalan to Stream
Some of the most notable films by M. Shyamalan are Signs (2002), After Earth (2013), The Last Airbender (2010), Split(2017), Unbreakable (2000).
Cast
Chris Messina as Detective Bowden, whose family has been killed in a hit and run accident, Logan Marshall-Green as Tony, the mechanic. Geoffrey Arend as Vince, the salesman. Bojana Novakovic as the young woman. Jenny O’Hara as the old woman. Bokeem Woodbine as Ben, the guard.
