Paramount Pictures’ A Quiet Place: Day One directed and co-written by Michael Sarnoski (sharing a credit with John Krasinski), and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer is the perfect prequel to the duology, offering a glimpse into how the world first reacted to the alien invasion in a big city setting. Set in New York, the story follows Lupita Nyong’o’s character Sam, who is battling cancer. She and her friend, who also happens to be her nurse, travel to New York to get a slice of her favorite pizza from Patsy’s when all hell breaks loose. This is a prequel we didn’t know we needed, perfectly setting the tone and showing us what everyone experienced in the big cities during the invasion.
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The movie primarily focuses on Sam, who later meets Eric, an aspiring British lawyer played by James Quinn, who is dealing with his panic disorder and fear amidst the chaos. Despite his struggles, Eric develops a friendship with Sam, partly due to her calming presence and her cat, who is also a notable part of the story for its unusually quiet demeanor and comedic charm.
Throughout the film, we see that humanity can overcome even the darkest times as long as we come together and show love for one another, even when we’re strangers. This message shines particularly toward the end of the film when the two characters return to Lupita Nyong’o’s favorite jazz bar, where she has fond memories of her father. The pair finally get to eat pizza and enjoy remnants of normalcy for a brief moment. Their reflection on what would have been normal life tugs on our heartstrings and reminds us that we can always find a moment to smile, despite our circumstances. While the jump scares and the monsters are more detailed, realistic, and terrifying than before, it is in these scenes that the film is most effective in leaving an impression on the audience.
Impressive Visuals Intensify Terror
The movie stands out for its intense and terrifying scenes, which are even more impactful when experienced in IMAX, where the sound design immerses the audience in the chaos of a city under siege. Notably, moments like a thunderstorm serve as opportunities for the characters to let loose. The film features numerous gripping sequences, such as a harrowing journey through a flooded subway tunnel, heightened by a panic attack that alerts the aliens. The attacks are both brutal and unforgettable, making this installment one of the most intense of the three. Director Sarnoski effectively utilizes the visual spectacle of creatures swarming the streets of New York, scaling skyscrapers, and destroying memorable landmarks. The pervasive sense of dread convincingly portrays how people might react to an incomprehensible and uncontrollable crisis, and how often our own panic and human reactions when faced with danger can lead to our demise.
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Throughout the film, Sam has several brief encounters with Djimon Hounsou’s character, Henri. One such moment occurs in a theater where he is with his family, and another takes place on a boat with Eric. These brief interactions are designed to connect the story of “A Quiet Place: Day One” and “A Quiet Place Part II,” offering glimpses into how the events and settings of the latter film came about.
Overall, the film stands as a solid addition to the franchise. Lupita Nyong’o’s astounding performance is a highlight, showcasing her ability to deeply connect with the audience and fully embody any character she portrays. The storyline intricately weaves together elements and other characters, crafting a believable invasion narrative that leaves ample room for future installments.
A Quiet Place: Day One is in theaters tomorrow!
