Review of Onslaught
Overview
I’ve been eagerly anticipating Onslaught, the latest release from A24. The film follows Celeste, portrayed by Adria Arjona, a military veteran and mother, as she defends her trailer park from an invading team of super soldiers. While the premise is intriguing, the execution left me disappointed.
What Kind of Movie Is This?
The biggest flaw in Onslaught is its disjointed tone. It oscillates between being an action film, a horror movie, a comedy, and a thriller. While each genre’s elements work individually, their combination causes a disconnect. The horror elements are gory and effective, and the action is intense. However, the comedic moments fall flat, with cheesy lines that pulled me out of the experience.
If Onslaught had embraced being solely an action movie, the humorous elements might have felt more fitting. Although I enjoy classic Arnold Schwarzenegger films with their corny lines, the darker theme of this film makes such dialogue feel out of place.
The Movie Didn’t Need the Daughter
A recurring theme in film discussions is the use of children in peril to evoke emotional responses, which can feel manipulative. This is precisely how I viewed the presence of Celeste’s daughter in Onslaught. The plot could have thrived without her character; the film could have stood strong on Celeste’s journey alone. It feels unnecessary and forced, detracting from the otherwise promising narrative.
Despite this, Onslaught possesses several strengths. The story is engaging, the direction is slick, the pacing is good, and the performances—both from the leads and supporting cast—are commendable. The special effects are impressive, and there’s an unexpected twist early on that adds intrigue.
In conclusion, while Onslaught has the essential ingredients for a successful film, it ultimately fails to come together cohesively. If you’re looking for a traditional action flick, it may leave you wanting more.
