Mental Horror Shines in “The Damned”

The Damned (Thordur Palsson, 2024) 4 out of 5 stars

The Damned is a bleak horror film that explores the theme of choice and its repercussions. Eva (Odessa Young, Shirley) leads a remote fishing community in Iceland. When the residents witness a ship sinking off the coast, they must confront a harrowing decision. As they grapple with the remorse of their actions, the group begins to feel as though they are being punished for their cruelty.

The film presents a stark beauty that captivates the viewer. This contrast is evident from the outset, with stunning visuals of the desolate outpost followed by a scene set in a dimly lit room illuminated solely by candlelight. Visibility is often limited; when clarity is achieved, it reveals a stark emptiness.

The psychological horror of The Damned is expertly crafted. Even before the full onset of terror, a sense of dread permeates the storyline. The combination of food scarcity and isolation fosters a believable sense of isolation; a sense that can make a human being do unsavory things.

However, the script falters in its final moments. Up until the climax, the narrative effectively addresses the guilt stemming from the shipwreck. The concluding conflict diminishes the weight of the preceding events. Compounding this issue is a perplexing twist that undermines the core themes of The Damned

Patrick Howard

Patrick Howard has been a cinephile since age seven. Alongside 10 years of experience in film analysis and criticism, he is a staunch supporter of all art forms and believes their influence and legacy over human culture is vital. Mr. Howard takes the time to write his own narrative stories when he can.