Film Review: “Come Play” – A Terrifying Technological Horror Journey

A Terrifying Technological Horror Journey Film Review: “Come Play” by Dylanna Fisher

“Come Play” takes you on a spine-chilling ride into technology and supernatural terror. Released in 2020, this atmospheric horror film explores the dangers of our hyper-connected world. It shows the horrifying consequences that unfold when an evil creature enters the digital realm. Let’s dive into the gripping story, commendable performances, and the overall impact of “Come Play.”

Reviewing “Come Play”

The story of “Come Play” embraces certain horror clichés. It offers its unique take on the fears associated with technology. It also explores supernatural entities. This film pays homage to earlier films like the “Poltergeist” series. It distinguishes itself by focusing on the dark side of modern connectivity. The movie creates an unsettling atmosphere through tension. It uses well-executed jump scares. In contrast, the “Poltergeist” series relies on paranormal and haunted house tropes. It blended suspense, supernatural elements, and adventure to provide a chilling and memorable experience. “Come Play” uses contemporary fears and modern horror techniques. However, the “Poltergeist” series remains a beloved classic. It is cherished for its Film Review: Come Play – A Terrifying Technological Horror Journey

“Come Play,” released in 2020, immerses viewers in a chilling blend of supernatural horror and technological terror. This atmospheric film taps into the fears of our hyper-connected world, exploring what happens when an evil entity crosses over into the digital realm. With a gripping storyline, commendable performances, and a blend of psychological and supernatural horror, “Come Play” crafts a unique viewing experience. Let’s delve deeper into the film’s strengths, its thematic resonance, and how it compares to classics in the genre.

Plot and Premise: Bridging the Digital and the Supernatural

At its core, Come Play takes a familiar horror trope—the malevolent supernatural entity—and intertwines it with the anxieties of modern technology. The film follows Oliver, a young, non-verbal boy who uses an electronic device to communicate. His world takes a terrifying turn when a mysterious, otherworldly creature named Larry begins to emerge through his screen. As the story unfolds, Larry’s sinister intentions become clear: he seeks to take Oliver into his dimension, preying on the vulnerabilities of human loneliness and disconnection.

The narrative resonates with contemporary fears about our dependence on technology, especially among children. It cleverly uses screens, apps, and television signals as conduits for horror, creating a sense of unease that feels particularly relevant in today’s digital age. This technological twist distinguishes Come Play from other supernatural films, grounding its scares in the familiar while exploring the psychological ramifications of isolation and lack of communication.

Thematic Depth: Loneliness and Connection in a Digital Age

Larry’s character is not just a monster but a metaphor for the loneliness that pervades modern society. As technology enables constant connectivity, it also diminishes face-to-face interactions, leaving individuals increasingly isolated. This theme is poignantly reflected in Oliver’s struggles as a child with communication difficulties and in the strained relationship between his parents.

The movie thoughtfully critiques how technology, while helpful, can exacerbate feelings of detachment. For instance, Oliver’s reliance on his device to communicate serves as both a lifeline and a barrier, highlighting the bittersweet impact of technological tools. Similarly, Larry’s emergence through digital screens serves as a grim reminder of the dangers lurking within our dependency on technology, urging viewers to reflect on the balance between its benefits and risks.

Horror Elements: A Modern Spin on Supernatural Terror

The film draws inspiration from horror classics like Poltergeist and A Nightmare on Elm Street, while incorporating innovative techniques to create a fresh and contemporary take on the genre. Unlike Poltergeist, which relied on traditional haunted house tropes, Come Play leverages modern fears—technology, isolation, and the fragility of communication. The tension is heightened through atmospheric dread, strategically placed jump scares, and the eerie omnipresence of Larry.

What sets Come Play apart is its inventive use of familiar media. For example, clips from SpongeBob SquarePants are ingeniously woven into the narrative, functioning as a medium for communication and a source of comfort for Oliver. In one particularly creative scene, a television flips through channels, spelling out answers to the mother’s desperate questions—a chilling yet brilliant twist that redefines the boundaries of interaction in horror storytelling.

Character Dynamics: Emotional Depth Amid the Fright

The heart of Come Play lies in its characters and their relationships. The strained dynamic between Oliver’s parents, exacerbated by his communication challenges, lends the film an emotional weight that complements its scares. The mother’s unwavering determination to protect her son contrasts sharply with the father’s hesitation and uncertainty, painting a realistic portrait of a family under duress.

One particularly moving scene sees Byron, Oliver’s classmate, sitting beside him and watching SpongeBob SquarePants. This tender moment underscores the power of genuine connection, offering a brief respite from the tension and reminding viewers of the film’s central theme: the need for human connection in an increasingly disconnected world.

Cinematic Parallels and Comparisons

Though Come Play treads familiar ground, its execution distinguishes it from its predecessors. For example, while Poltergeist emphasized family unity and paranormal adventure, Come Play opts for a darker, more introspective tone, focusing on psychological horror and the perils of isolation. Both films, however, share a common thread: the intrusion of malevolent forces into the safety of home and family.

Similarly, Come Play echoes technophobic horror films like Unfriended, which explore how digital platforms can harbor hidden dangers. However, Come Play transcends the subgenre by delving deeper into emotional territory, examining how technology influences relationships and exacerbates loneliness.

The Emotional and Symbolic Climax

The film’s climax delivers an emotional punch, blending suspense with heart-wrenching symbolism. In a pivotal scene, Oliver’s mother spins him around the room while maintaining eye contact—a desperate act of love and protection. The father’s reaction to this act is equally poignant, highlighting the deep sacrifices families make in the face of overwhelming threats.

Larry’s presence as an embodiment of loneliness resonates most strongly in these final moments. As Oliver’s family confronts the monster, the underlying message becomes clear: the real horror lies not in the supernatural but in the consequences of failing to nurture genuine human connections.

Final Thoughts: A Cautionary Tale for the Digital Era

Come Play is more than a horror film—it’s a sobering commentary on the societal impact of technology. By blending supernatural terror with relatable emotional struggles, the movie achieves a balance that both frightens and moves its audience. Its exploration of themes like loneliness, family bonds, and technological dependence makes it a standout in the horror genre.

While it may not achieve the cult status of Poltergeist,Come Play leaves an indelible impression, reminding us to cherish real-world connections even as we navigate an increasingly digital world. The film’s clever storytelling, emotional depth, and modern relevance ensure that it lingers in the minds of viewers long after the credits roll.