ORPHAN: FIRST KILL – “A surprisingly twisted prequel with camp to spare”

Orphan First Kill

RATING

DIRECTOR

Directed by: William Brent Bell (The Boy – 2016)

MAIN CAST

  • Isabelle Fuhrman as Leena Klammer / Esther Albright
  • Julia Stiles as Tricia Albright
  • Rossif Sutherland as Allen Albright
  • Matthew Finlan as Gunnar Albright
  • Hiro Kanagawa as Inspector Donnan
  • Jade Michael as Madison
  • Samantha Walkes as Dr. Sager

SYNOPSIS

It is a prequel to the 2009 film Orphan

After orchestrating a brilliant escape from an Estonian psychiatric facility, Esther travels to America by impersonating the missing daughter of a wealthy family. Yet, an unexpected twist arises that pits her against a mother who will protect her family from the murderous 'child' at any cost.

REVIEW SUMMARY

The 13-years-later follow-up to Orphan is a surprisingly twisted prequel with camp to spare. And while you might think you know what this film has in store for you, you are probably wrong. That’s because, like the first instalment, Orphan: First Kill has plenty of inspired curveballs up its devilish sleeve. In short, this isn’t just nostalgic retread. But for all the fun twists, the story goes down in flames in the third act (literally) thanks to a predictable cliché-heavy finale. Regardless of the disappointing finish though, praise needs to be given to Isablle Fuhrman and director William Brent Bell. You see, a combination of makeup and forced perspective shots were used to allow Fuhrman to portray Esther (a 33-year-old dwarf posing as a 9-year-old girl). And with no CGI special effects used, it becomes a wonderful “practical” filmmaking experience. And while we’re handing out kudos, an extra nod needs to be given to Julia Stiles. The actress really sunk her teeth into the mother role here, going all in with the bonkers plot twists in the process. It’s pretty safe to say that everyone really embraced the camp. And frankly, it paid off. Trust me, this is one orphan movie you won’t regret adopting.

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