Don't Breathe

7

TVJerrySep 9, 2016

Three young people break into houses for profit…until they choose the house of a blind man….who fights back. The film sustains a constant level of anxiety, while only resorting to jump-scares once or twice. The actors are convincingly tenseThree young people break into houses for profit…until they choose the house of a blind man….who fights back. The film sustains a constant level of anxiety, while only resorting to jump-scares once or twice. The actors are convincingly tense and the plot has enuff twists to keep us on our toes. There's nothing especially original here, but director Fede Alvarez manages to create an enjoyably taut little thriller.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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6

j1trainSep 8, 2016

An absurd third act cheapens an otherwise artful, clever film. It really didn't need to go there. But in the early robbery scenes, the film's use of silence is genuinely nerve-wracking.

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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0

MikeLynoSep 8, 2016

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I didn't like this movie one bit. It's about bad people who bruitize people's house and steal. They pick one wrong one to hit and I can't find my self feeling a bit sorry for the jam they got their selves into. Blind people develop senses to make up for not seeing.but this dude didn't seem to have any of them. He couldn't see you 1 foot in front of his face or couldn't smell them. Makes you wonder how he got that house so together in the first place. Then there was the dude jerking off at the first house and throwing his load all over the floor was just very tacky and completely unnessessary to be in the film at all. Film was totally unbelieveable and you can tell how bad a movie has missed the mark by how many times I'm shaking my head (and I did it a lot). Can't figure out the big craze of this movie. The chick ends up getting away with all the cash, so typical Hollywood. To be honest I thought the movie was total crap.… Expand

2 of 12 users found this helpful210

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7

ChildishFroakieSep 7, 2016

Now this movie is not perfect, no. But it does have an original plot and effective scares without trying to have jump scares every 20 seconds. It was good to see a more horror oriented film have good characters that you actually cared for.Now this movie is not perfect, no. But it does have an original plot and effective scares without trying to have jump scares every 20 seconds. It was good to see a more horror oriented film have good characters that you actually cared for. Stephen Lang does an EXCELLENT job and the rest of the cast is also very believable. Tonally it shifts a little and towards the end it does drag a bit. But i think all in all its a good movie that I highly recommend.… Expand

1 of 12 users found this helpful111

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10

DragmanXSep 4, 2016

Definitely the scariest film of the year! Don't Breathe is full of suspense and everything that makes a thriller so thrilling. Great film that is full of suspense. It will keep you at the edge of your seat the whole time and is hard to watchDefinitely the scariest film of the year! Don't Breathe is full of suspense and everything that makes a thriller so thrilling. Great film that is full of suspense. It will keep you at the edge of your seat the whole time and is hard to watch because of how intense these scenes get. This is a very entertaining thriller from beginning to end and should be seen in theaters!… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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2

anitquitySep 3, 2016

I didn't care for this movie, which I found to rely more on gross outs and over-the-top violence than true suspense and plot. The movie starts well enough, but quickly disentigrates into the type of cheap shock trips that get the high schoolI didn't care for this movie, which I found to rely more on gross outs and over-the-top violence than true suspense and plot. The movie starts well enough, but quickly disentigrates into the type of cheap shock trips that get the high school kids giggling and shouting at the screen. Clearly I'm not the target audience, but I was expecting a more adult-oriented suspense movie.… Expand

2 of 7 users found this helpful25

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8

mcg1986Sep 3, 2016

Don’t Breathe seems like nothing more than a gimmicky premise parading around as an unique thriller. Luckily, it’s more than that. Eschewing the uniquitous teeny-centric scare-fests we are so often bridled with, director Alvarez hasDon’t Breathe seems like nothing more than a gimmicky premise parading around as an unique thriller. Luckily, it’s more than that. Eschewing the uniquitous teeny-centric scare-fests we are so often bridled with, director Alvarez has sidestepped convention to give us a brutal genre picture full of “What in the world?!” surprises and jaw-dropping twists. Thanks to the strength in its accomplished direction and focused scope, Don’t Breathe is a pull-no-punches, edge-of-your-seat nightmare.
It’s a reverse of the home-invasion story, like a slightly less compelling (although more purely plotted) version of 10 Cloverfield Lane: a group of burglars is terrorized by the homeowner, blind war veteran who is more than meets the eye. Alvrez’s direction is unexpectedly strong, as the clever camera work and immense details pull us right in. In particular, the way a blind person may setup up their home is perfectly realized (empty rooms, backwards-facing TVs). On top of that, the fight scenes are well-staged and the sound editing mixed with the score beautifully manipulates the tension.
The characters, unfortunately, are not as successful. The cool meta-element that speaks of film-going voyeurism gets a bit lost when the characters aren’t quite engaging enough. A movie-personification of the axiom “hurt people hurt people”, and Lang as the blind, pseudo-villain is the only real high-point as an effectively imposing and volatile presence. Otherwise, the motivations range from clichéd to weak, desperately needing more layers and better dialogue (again, see 10 Cloverfield Lane). Luckily, when you’re deep inside this joylessly demented thriller, it’s roller-coaster scares are the perfect post-summer escape at the theaters.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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8

brohugSep 3, 2016

Really more like a 7.5 but didn't want to undersell this gem. Lean, effective thriller. At times almost seems like a stage play. The characters are drawn correctly, especially the target of the break-in played by the durable actor StephenReally more like a 7.5 but didn't want to undersell this gem. Lean, effective thriller. At times almost seems like a stage play. The characters are drawn correctly, especially the target of the break-in played by the durable actor Stephen Lang. His moral arc from victim to monster is entirely believable and the motivation for his actions rational, given what's happened to his life. There's one niggling plot gap but it is easily dismissed while you're sitting in the theater literally holding your breath.… Expand

0 of 10 users found this helpful010

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8

HeaveniaSep 2, 2016

Don't Breathe was actually the best thriller movie of the year as I known. For all of you who want to watch or download the movie, might you can visit here http://bit.ly/2bUzxAI. Thanks...

1 of 9 users found this helpful18

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6

JRY69Aug 31, 2016

"Don't Breathe" was actually one of the most surprising movies for me this year. When I originally saw the previews, I thought this looked like a gimmicky movie that wouldn't amount to much. And while I was sort of right with the gimmicky"Don't Breathe" was actually one of the most surprising movies for me this year. When I originally saw the previews, I thought this looked like a gimmicky movie that wouldn't amount to much. And while I was sort of right with the gimmicky part, the movie overall is a tense experience that many people will enjoy. However, the movie fails in certain aspects that I just can't get over.

The story is rather simple: three friends go around robbing houses to get money. Our main character, Rocky, and her boyfriend, Money, are trying to get money to leave Detroit and move to California. Their friend Alex helps them by getting the keys to the houses since his dad works for a real estate company. One day, Money gets a tip that an old blind man has a large settlement in his home, so they decide to rob him thinking it will be an easy score. This of course starts our movie experience as the old blind man is more capable than we think he is. Before I get into my complains, let me tell you what this movie gets right.

By far the best part of this movie is the atmosphere. At first I thought the setting of just the house would get boring, but it actually added to the feeling of claustrophobia in the film. Each scene with the blind man and the main characters is tense and heart pounding, especially later in the film. There's some great sequences where the blind man will be chasing or hunting down the robbers that makes your heart pound.

The writing too is very solid and believable, at least for the main characters. Some characters like Rocky's mom and her boyfriend Money have lines that feel somewhat cliché and forced. However, the main trio of characters (that being Alex, Rocky, and the blind man) have great dialogue and interactions with each other that feels believable.

Cinematography is also solid overall. While the film doesn't take many risks with it's cinematography, it still helps add to that overall tense and scary feel that the movie is going for.

Where the movie start to fall apart for me is the overall story and twists. I won't spoil them here, but the movie does awful with the suspension of disbelief. Theres moments where you'll say "oh they're dead" only for the character to get up and start running as if nothing happened at all.

But by far the biggest complaint I have with the film was the way in which they try to make you dislike the old blind man. See, when thinking about the concept as face value (that being three people robbing a blind man), you wouldn't really feel much sorrow for the three robbers as what they're doing is an awful thing. However, the film does several things to make you afraid and dislike the blind man. Now I won't spoil it here, but I will say that these twists felt forced. You could tell that the writer knew that they had to make the blind man unlikeable, so they threw these twists in there to make him so.

In summary, "Don't Breathe" is not a bad movie. Not at all. But the movie has fundamental problems with it's story and plot that I just couldn't really see myself watching it again. While it does have good acting, solid dialogue and good cinematography, the ridiculous suspension of disbelief and messy twists hold this movie back from being the next great horror film.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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9

romanontherunAug 31, 2016

Wow, it was a good surprise.
- it was short and tense. where is no unnecessary elements and not a single minute wasted
- it had actually nervous and atmospheric with no cheap jump-scares - characters are actually good and realistic, theyWow, it was a good surprise.
- it was short and tense. where is no unnecessary elements and not a single minute wasted
- it had actually nervous and atmospheric with no cheap jump-scares
- characters are actually good and realistic, they get scared, do stupid stuff, but actually looks like real humans
- the "villain" is not a mindless maniac but actually logical and reasonable (to some degree) - you could understand his motives and feel for him (again, to some degree)… Expand

13 of 15 users found this helpful132

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3

moviemitch96Aug 30, 2016

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I know I'm gonna be in the minority on this one and I honestly couldn't care less! This film just didn't work for me at all! It wasn't scary at all, nor was it as near as suspenseful as it was hyped up to be, and the characters made really dumb decisions throughout the entire film. And to make matters worse, the entire second half became so scattershot and ridiculous that I was pretty much ready for it to end by the time there was well over a half-hour to go. Overall, I found this to be not only not scary at all, but also completely absurd due to the incompetent characters and ridiculous turn the plot takes in the second half. Once it was revealed that the blind man simply wanted a child after his daughter's death and was willing to rape kidnapped women for one, the film simply lost all credibility with me (I really could've done without that POV shot of him filling the inside of a turkey baster with his own semen, just sayin'!)… Expand

2 of 7 users found this helpful25

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8

bfoore90Aug 30, 2016

I've heard a few people summarize this movies as, "'It's like if Stick from Daredevil lost his **** and started killing folks." Don't breathe is essentially that, pure tension from start to finish. If your're looking for a really good horrorI've heard a few people summarize this movies as, "'It's like if Stick from Daredevil lost his **** and started killing folks." Don't breathe is essentially that, pure tension from start to finish. If your're looking for a really good horror movie thats a change of pace from what weve been getting, this movies for you.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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8

tjman09Aug 30, 2016

In a year with a string of impressive horror films, Don’t Breathe is yet another good entry. Directed by Fede Alvarez (Evil Dead, 2013), this film shows that he has a talent for horror, and may be a rising presence in the genre. Don’t BreatheIn a year with a string of impressive horror films, Don’t Breathe is yet another good entry. Directed by Fede Alvarez (Evil Dead, 2013), this film shows that he has a talent for horror, and may be a rising presence in the genre. Don’t Breathe is hold-your-breath scary, and features a clever premise, despite a few small plot holes. It is worth mentioning that the title and posters seemed a little ambiguous as to the plot, but watching the film the title seems appropriate.
The first thing to mention about this film is that it is full of twists and turns, but does take a relatively practical approach to it’s plot. The film’s story is very smartly constructed, as it is full of tension from the opening moments, right up to the end. The film’s biggest strength is its simplicity, as it makes the most of a very straightforward premise. That being said, the film is constructed in a way that obstacles are consistently thrown at the main characters in creative ways.
Simply put the fact that the writers and directors were able to tell a story with such a clever yet simple premise makes it easy to follow. The impressive thing about this film is within a short period of time, the characters are well established and the premise, which is quite clever, is introduced. With all of the cliched horror films today, putting empty characters in cliched situations, it’s refreshing to see relatable characters put into a straightforward premise. However, as happens in all horror films, the characters find everything is not as they expected it, and quickly discover they’re in over their heads.
The only problem with the film, is that it does cater to a few too many horror cliches and has a few glaring plot holes. While the obstacles in this film are creatively thrown at the main characters, a few of them don’t make sense, with a little thought. The story at times, neglects to explain how something happened, and relies on a few Deus ex Machinas. The irony is that many of the plot holes, end up helping the villain character, as he seems almost inhuman by the end of the film.
In the end, Don’t Breathe does a brilliant job keeping the audience on the edge of their seats, with a combination of ingenuity and simplicity. The film offers a refreshing entry in the horror genre, which has seen a nice revival this year, from the typically cliched horror films we get. The film isn’t great, as it has a few too many plot holes, and cliches, but is still very entertaining. Horror buffs looking for a good film to get them into the Fall/Halloween season will likely enjoy this film.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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5

kugelblitz527Aug 30, 2016

While the overall acting and cinematography was done pretty well in my opinion, the story is pretty unoriginal, the "twists" are predictable, and the villain isn't very scary. You might get a few jump scares out of it, but that's it. IfWhile the overall acting and cinematography was done pretty well in my opinion, the story is pretty unoriginal, the "twists" are predictable, and the villain isn't very scary. You might get a few jump scares out of it, but that's it. If you're looking for a decent, entertaining horror movie, this may or may not be worth your time.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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8

Muskrat147Aug 30, 2016

An incredibly tense and chilling addition to the home invasion genre, Don't Breathe packs in plenty of scares and thrills into its 88-minute run time.

2 of 9 users found this helpful27

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7

meg-mastersAug 30, 2016

I was expecting this movie to be just another crappy horror movie that would be fun to see with my friends, but it ended up being quite an interesting thriller. I wouldn't see it again, but I don't regret seeing it the first time.

1 of 7 users found this helpful16

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3

SoulExcuseAug 29, 2016

This movie has too many plot holes. It falls flat in all the most important places. You can not suspend your disbelief this long. He could have shot the guy from the beginning.

3 of 10 users found this helpful37

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8

marcmyworksAug 29, 2016

Generally nerve wracking and an interesting take on the horror/thriller genre. Fede Alvarez manages to show the World why he is the current master of the horror genre by creating tense and uncomfortable situations.

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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1

dunnyoneAug 29, 2016

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Am I living in an alternate universe, where everyone has been gifted with sub-moron level IQs? And therefore, films like Don't Breathe are universally praised. Don't Breathe is a massive pile of dung, with awful characters, poor plot and not even a single character to root for. The main woman, who we are supposed to get behind, is an awful thief and Stephan Lang is simply defending his home. It's nonsensical, non-scary and has one okay-ish scene (the turkey baster). Movies these days are awful and Don't Breathe is no exception.… Expand

3 of 10 users found this helpful37

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4

podunk411Aug 28, 2016

Slick, well shot, acting pretty good overall, but story isn't there--very cliche'd and even cartoony at times. The only real plot device is messing with the audience 's allegiance to either the thieves or homeowner. Really wish it had more toSlick, well shot, acting pretty good overall, but story isn't there--very cliche'd and even cartoony at times. The only real plot device is messing with the audience 's allegiance to either the thieves or homeowner. Really wish it had more to it then just the cheap scares. Definitely wait for this one on Netflix or DVD.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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7

WheelzFourReelzAug 28, 2016

Don't Breathe is not a horror masterpiece. Heck, it's not even that scary. However, this movie uses phenomenal direction, a solid cast, and great tension in a product that was an enjoyable watch overall.

1 of 7 users found this helpful16

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6

papadrew7Aug 28, 2016

This was a well shot/acted movie but the plot just did not make me care about the main characters. The main characters are THIEVES alright. They are breaking into people's homes to steal and hollywood expects me to be rooting for theseThis was a well shot/acted movie but the plot just did not make me care about the main characters. The main characters are THIEVES alright. They are breaking into people's homes to steal and hollywood expects me to be rooting for these scumbags? I DON'T THINK SO! I was actually rooting for the homeowner 3/4 of the way through the movie.… Expand

1 of 7 users found this helpful16

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6

GinaKAug 28, 2016

This is a cheap trick, not very original revenge horror movie with the kind of mindless violence (and gross out) that has teenage boys giggling in the back row. Certainly Director Alvarez is slick – he has studied the tricks and knows how toThis is a cheap trick, not very original revenge horror movie with the kind of mindless violence (and gross out) that has teenage boys giggling in the back row. Certainly Director Alvarez is slick – he has studied the tricks and knows how to move the plot along and shoot scenes to hold your interest. But this is not a stylish or very smart film – not Halloween or Psycho or Alien or Silence of the Lambs – so I give it a middling grade. I wouldn’t even call it “fun” and I am a horror film fan. Maybe he can learn to add a little less gore and a little more humanity in the future.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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8

homer4presidentAug 28, 2016

I thought it was pretty good considering the type of horror movies we get nowadays. This movie exceeded my expectations by a lot. HOWEVER, I think this would have even gotten a higher score if it weren't for the whole supernatural element ofI thought it was pretty good considering the type of horror movies we get nowadays. This movie exceeded my expectations by a lot. HOWEVER, I think this would have even gotten a higher score if it weren't for the whole supernatural element of the movie. It wasn't really necessary and I just thought the blind guy himself was already terrifying enough.… Expand

1 of 16 users found this helpful115

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8

GerardistheWayAug 27, 2016

This film had an interesting premise, but much like "Suicide Squad" I was afraid that they weren't going to do much with it and deliver a bland, run-of-the-mill horror movie. Fede Alvarez, director of the 2013 "Evil Dead" remake, put all myThis film had an interesting premise, but much like "Suicide Squad" I was afraid that they weren't going to do much with it and deliver a bland, run-of-the-mill horror movie. Fede Alvarez, director of the 2013 "Evil Dead" remake, put all my fears to rest.

Rocky (Jane Levy), Alex (Dylan Minnette), and Money (Daniel Zovatto) are Detroit teenagers who spend their days pulling off heists at houses protected by the security company Alex's dad works for; for Rocky, she is trying to make enough money to run away to California with her younger sister to escape their neglectful and abusive mother. One robbery doesn't net nearly as much profit as they had hoped, so Money devises a new scheme: rob the home of a blind Iraq War veteran (Stephen Lang) who received a quarter-million dollar settlement from a rich family after one of its members accidentally killed his only daughter. One problem with this, though...The old guy is severely underestimated and is not nearly as defenseless as he seems, and soon the thieves find themselves locked in a life-threatening struggle to escape the house before they end up victims of their stupid decision.

Aside from the target of this little robbery, the character development in the story isn't much to speak of. Alex and Money are given no traits that set them apart from typical horror movie guys: the former is the concerned, brains-of-the-operation friend trying to be more than a friend, and the latter is the tough-guy BF who thinks life's problems can be solved with a Beretta 9mm (oh, the irony). The same could be said for Rocky, although we're given more of an explanation as to her reasons for committing these crimes than we are for the others (Money we can automatically assume greed, but why Alex is involved is beyond me) and thus sympathize with her a bit more. Despite this, one thing I like about both our heroes(?) is--and stick with me here, people, this is gonna be a shocker--is that for the most part, THEY MAKE RATIONAL DECISIONS. God, how long has it been since a horror movie has done that? Too long, that's the answer. Lang, who came to international attention for playing the douchey Army guy in "Avatar", gets what is undoubtedly the most interesting character in the movie, and his moral ambiguity will make you wanna both hate him and root for him at the same time. Indeed, his seems like the more sympathetic character throughout most of the film, until a dark secret is revealed and he dips into more villainous territory.

The cinematography, which so often in modern horror movies relies on shaky, choppily edited filming to produce scares, is beautifully clean, which a film like this almost demands. Without a clear view of the predicament each character is facing, it's hard to follow the action and know exactly what has happened, but once again Alvarez proves himself above the level of the usual modern-day horror writer/director and carefully constructs the house so that everything has its place, as if he were drafting its architectural design rather than setting a home invasion thriller inside of it. The sequence among the shelves in the basement is easily one of my favorites within modern horror films, as the facial expressions of the actors perfectly capture the essence of being trapped in the dark with a man who is neither frightened nor affected by it.

The performances of the cast are phenomenal, particularly Minnette, Lang, and Levy (the latter previously worked with Alvarez in his "Evil Dead" remake); as the would-be robbers try to evade the deadly octogenarian and learn the dark truth behind the things that happen in his house, the fight to escape and survive becomes all the more desperate and all the more engrossing. Minnette, with what little he has to work with in terms of character, manages to make Alex likable to the point that we hope he also survives, and what more could a horror movie character ask for? Lang at once makes his character sadly sympathetic and utterly disturbing and terrifying, and his attitude towards the world, the robbers, and anything/anyone else that crosses his path can be summed up in one line of his: "There is nothing to hold a man back once he realizes there is no God." The Blind Man plays a variety of roles in different places within the film: a grief-stricken wretch, a stoic vigilante defending his home from intruders, a morally indifferent sociopath, and a nihilistic philosopher, depending on what's required of him.

All in all, a lean and mean home invasion movie that will be sure to both entertain and petrify in equal measure. "Scary" isn't the correct descriptor for this film; "tense" is more like it, and there's not a moment once the real action begins that you won't be on the edge of your seat, hanging on to every scene as if it might be your favorite character's last. A great cast, beautiful cinematography and one of the best twists in modern horror make for a ride you won't forget soon. 8/10… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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8

mrmonsterAug 27, 2016

Very, very intense. Now, it's not a perfect movie, but this is still a very intense, thrilling movie. You should definitely watch it if you want to watch a very thrilling horror movie.

2 of 7 users found this helpful25

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9

camilaxoAug 27, 2016

Wow, what a movie. The characteristic of it I enjoyed most is how it could all happen, there was no sci-fi fake stuff; this could totally happen to you and your friends if you tried being smart! This movie will absolutely absorb yourWow, what a movie. The characteristic of it I enjoyed most is how it could all happen, there was no sci-fi fake stuff; this could totally happen to you and your friends if you tried being smart! This movie will absolutely absorb your attention, making you jump, scream, cover your eyes and cuddle the person next to you. Also, Stephen Lang looked so strong it was impressive...… Expand

14 of 15 users found this helpful141

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7

BrianMcCriticAug 26, 2016

This film will have you tied up in knots with tension. For most of the film you can't help but be locked in on our main characters as they try and escape this house. There is a twist towards the end that didn't work for me which lowered theThis film will have you tied up in knots with tension. For most of the film you can't help but be locked in on our main characters as they try and escape this house. There is a twist towards the end that didn't work for me which lowered the score. B+… Expand

3 of 8 users found this helpful35

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10

ThegodfathersonAug 26, 2016

Don't Breathe is a knockout. It is a gruelling film that features an excellent Stephen Lang and is very well directed by Fede Alverez. Alvarez (Evil Dead) crafts a horror experience that is one for the ages. Extremely well written and shot,Don't Breathe is a knockout. It is a gruelling film that features an excellent Stephen Lang and is very well directed by Fede Alverez. Alvarez (Evil Dead) crafts a horror experience that is one for the ages. Extremely well written and shot, it is a prime example of one of the best horror films ever made. This one will go down as a classic.… Expand

77 of 87 users found this helpful7710

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10

hkdestinyAug 26, 2016

This is an amazing movie with a wicked twist and it exceeds above all expectations giving the audience a fun thrill ride. It is definitely a must see for everyone as the performances are well off the chart! Exceptional acting and greatThis is an amazing movie with a wicked twist and it exceeds above all expectations giving the audience a fun thrill ride. It is definitely a must see for everyone as the performances are well off the chart! Exceptional acting and great directing making this thriller/horror a classic!… Expand

6 of 7 users found this helpful61

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0

frodo113711Aug 26, 2016

horrible movie with a stupid plot line that made no sense what so ever and a even worse ending i paid 5 bucks to see this movie and i still feel ripped off Don't breathe more like Don't see (pun intended)

4 of 15 users found this helpful411

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10

Compi24Aug 26, 2016

In a year chock full of almost-perfects and nearly-immaculates, not only is it surprising to me that the year's best film (so far, in my opinion) is sitting pretty within one of the cinematic calendar's most unassuming months, but that's it'sIn a year chock full of almost-perfects and nearly-immaculates, not only is it surprising to me that the year's best film (so far, in my opinion) is sitting pretty within one of the cinematic calendar's most unassuming months, but that's it's also a film that dwells inside one of my least favorite genres - horror. This isn't just your average horror movie, though. No, no. In fact, in many ways it falls short of the simple identifiers that help sell modern horror pictures in general. Supernatural elements? Nope. Found footage element? Not even. Jump scares galore? Think again. This is an inventive, accessible, painful, stick-to-your-ribs horror film that hearkens back to - yes, I know, but bear with me here - other twisted, psychologically-fuelled horror classics like "Psycho" and "The Silence Of The Lambs," and it is without a doubt one of the most entertaining times I've had at the theater in recent memory. This is a film that has not only seen every horror movie known to man, but is well aware of the fact that you have too. "Don't Breathe" takes a look at all the expectations, cliches, and tropes that we've gleaned from these horror films, spits on them, cusses at them, and flips the table on them. There is nearly nothing predictable about "Don't Breathe." And THAT is where the true horror comes in.
There's a certain point within the film (I'd say right around the twenty-minute mark) where you as a viewer are forced to take a step back and realize that you have absolutely no idea where this story is headed and that you are utterly powerless in the journey that is about to ensue. And that helplessness, that lack of certainty in what's about to happen; THAT's what makes this movie scary. Sure, the lead performance from Stephen Lang is truly menacing and a career best. Indeed, the set design and makeup effects evoke nausea and other forms of discomfort. Of course the darkness of the story at hand (both real and metaphorical) is spooky to think about. But I say again - knowing that director Fede Alvarez is deliberately misdirecting you at every turn? THAT's horrifying. I surrendered to "Don't Breathe" and, as a result, I was able to enjoy what has quite easily become my favorite modern horror film to date.
In contrast to this film's title, I'd advise you guys to - y'know - always breathe. But what you should definitely NOT DO is miss this film. It is well worth your time.… Expand

5 of 6 users found this helpful51

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8

DavidV293Aug 26, 2016

If you like those type of movies that will leave you with sweat in your hands, than try this amazing film. It's leaves you anxious and ready for the next scene. There's also two sides you can choose, and that's the victims or the Mr. BlindIf you like those type of movies that will leave you with sweat in your hands, than try this amazing film. It's leaves you anxious and ready for the next scene. There's also two sides you can choose, and that's the victims or the Mr. Blind man (Stephen Lang). From beginning to end, I can assure you this film is one to remember in the horror genre. Just watch it for yourself and have great time.… Expand

6 of 10 users found this helpful64

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5

oakleezAug 26, 2016

I went to this on opening night for 3 reasons: The trailer looked great, it has a good director (Fede Alvarez who did the Evil Dead 2013 reboot), and it's actually a horror movie rated R which is rare these days. It was unique enough atI went to this on opening night for 3 reasons: The trailer looked great, it has a good director (Fede Alvarez who did the Evil Dead 2013 reboot), and it's actually a horror movie rated R which is rare these days. It was unique enough at times for me to come out of it without feeling ripped off... but it definitely had some flaws.

Pros:
Great direction and cinematography. A few scenes literally had me holding my breath.
Some plot twists are genuine surprises and at times it is very suspenseful.
It's a large-release horror movie that is rated R. It's a dying breed.

Cons:
The blatant attempt to portray atheists as nihilistic scum is ridiculous. I won't spoil anything, but this is the weakest attempt to paint atheists as terrible people in cinematic history. It's laughable and completely out of place in the context of the movie. I wouldn't be surprised to find out that this movie was partially funded by extremist Christians. It's that bad. Thankfully, it was just one scene... but it could have been easily cut and it would not have affected the plot.
Many of the plot "twists" are predictable due to obvious foreshadowing. Zooming in on items that don't currently matter is just telling the audience you think they're stupid. It's 2016... we don't need adult (rated R) horror movies holding our hands. They could have very easily omitted a few angles/scenes and the audience would have felt less patronized.… Expand

5 of 14 users found this helpful59

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2

EpicLadySpongeAug 26, 2016

Why is it that every time a new horror movie comes out, critics and even the audience itself are already prepared to give positive reviews? Horror movies are just basically using the same bait to scare you for immediate cash and Don't BreatheWhy is it that every time a new horror movie comes out, critics and even the audience itself are already prepared to give positive reviews? Horror movies are just basically using the same bait to scare you for immediate cash and Don't Breathe is no different. It follows the many clichés horror movies have been suffering since the elements seen here are no longer fresh and original. You might as well consider seeing something else instead because this is just an outrage in a can.… Expand

3 of 20 users found this helpful317

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Don't Breathe

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