It is a shame that the Academy typically overlooks the horror genre when it comes to acting. In 2019, Lupita Nyong’o was arguably snubbed for her outstanding performance in Jordan Peele’s Us. Now, Nyong’o is back in the horror lane with A Quiet Place: Day One, and once again, she delivers a standout, awards-worthy performance. Even as the third installment of the franchise with a completely new director, it seems John Krasinski should have passed the torch long ago.
The film begins with Nyong’o’s character, Sam, sharing a poignant poem she wrote while in hospice, where she is battling terminal cancer with her cat, Frodo. Ruben, played by Alex Wolff, a nurse at the hospice facility just outside New York City, invites Sam to a show in the city. Reluctantly, she agrees on one condition: they must get pizza in the city after the show.
Upon arriving, Sam realizes she’s been tricked into attending a puppet show. Despite her initial hesitation, she finds the performance deeply moving, reflecting on her own life slipping away. After the show, excited to get pizza at her father’s favorite spot in Harlem, Sam is abruptly informed by Ruben that they must return to the hospice quickly due to an unfolding crisis. They notice army trucks and police cars but think little of it. As they board the bus back, a massive blast sends a cloud of debris everywhere, plunging them into chaos.
Amidst the confusion, Sam senses danger lurking in the debris, and as people begin to scream, they are suddenly attacked. This moment is where Sam realizes the severity of the situation and seeks refuge. Here, Michael Sarnoski’s directorial talents shine through. Sarnoski, known for his acclaimed work on Pig, co-wrote the script with Krasinski, crafting a film that feels like a grand apocalyptic thriller, despite its modest $67 million budget. The special effects are so convincing they rival that of a $200 million Marvel feature.
What follows is a gripping story about survival, with characters fighting for their lives while on a quest for the last slice of pizza in New York City. Nyong’o brings her usual powerful performance, elevating (but not carrying) the film. The cast, including Joseph Quinn, showcases their talents by conveying intense emotions and actions with minimal dialogue, a testament to their acting prowess. Quinn, known for his role in Stranger Things, brings a strong presence to the film, complementing Nyong’o’s performance.
Nyong’o and Quinn have incredible on-screen chemistry, which enhances the storytelling. Their ability to convey depth and emotion without words highlights the pure acting talent present in the film. Alex Wolff, recognized for his performances in Hereditary and Old, adds another layer of intensity to the narrative. A Quiet Place: Day One is not just a horror film; it’s a masterclass in visual storytelling and character-driven drama.
A Quiet Place: Day One is a must-see for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike, offering a fresh yet familiar experience that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The film’s ability to blend high-stakes horror with deeply emotional performances makes it a standout in the genre.
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“A Quiet Place: Day One,” a Paramount Pictures release in theaters Friday.
Grade: B+