With the arrival of the new year, Netflix has dropped a wide variety of TV shows and films, from the highly anticipated Squid Game season two to the Avicii documentary and the first live WWE Raw broadcast on the platform. While these releases are sure to captivate many, those in search of truly terrifying horror may have found what they’ve been looking for.
The streaming giant has quietly added a “disturbing” horror movie that viewers are now calling one of the “scariest in the world.” Don’t Breathe, a film released in 2016, is once again making waves among horror fans, thanks to its intense storyline and spine-chilling atmosphere.
A Thrilling Plot with a Shocking Twist
Directed by Fede Álvarez, Don’t Breathe stars Jane Levy, Dylan Minnette, Daniel Zovatto, and Stephen Lang. The film was a commercial success, grossing over $157 million globally, and has maintained a solid reputation in the horror genre. With an impressive 88% on Rotten Tomatoes’ Tomatometer, the film follows three thieves from Detroit who target wealthy homes. They set their sights on a blind war veteran living in a secluded house after he reportedly wins a large cash settlement following the tragic death of his daughter.
What seems like an easy heist quickly turns into a nightmare as the burglars discover that their victim is far from helpless. Trapped in his home, they must fight for their survival after making a terrifying discovery about the man they thought would be an easy target.
The Scare Factor: A Thrilling Ride of Tension and Fear
Don’t Breathe did well with both critics and audiences when it first came out, earning a sequel in 2021 and an impressive 79% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes’ Popcornmeter. Many viewers have praised it as one of the most original horror films they’ve seen. One reviewer called it a “really cool, original movie,” while another claimed it was “by far” their favorite horror film.
“I wasn’t expecting much from this movie, and damn, I was very much wrong. One of the best movies I’ve seen,” wrote one enthusiastic viewer.
The film’s tension is palpable, and its shocking twists have left audiences on edge. Several viewers reported being so scared that they found themselves gasping in disbelief during key moments. One reviewer described it as an “edge-of-your-seat thriller” that had them pausing the film to brace themselves for what was coming next. “The denouement is truly frightening. A triumph of a horror thriller,” they added.
Mixed Reactions on Characters and Predictability
Despite the widespread praise, Don’t Breathe isn’t without its critics. Some viewers felt that the characters were lacking depth and were less than likable. Others found the plot to be “highly predictable,” but most still acknowledged the film’s ability to generate fear and suspense. One reviewer mentioned that while they didn’t mind the film as a one-time experience, they didn’t feel the need to revisit it, hoping the sequel would offer a better story with more compelling characters.
Where to Watch
Whether you’re a die-hard horror fan or someone just looking for a terrifying experience, Don’t Breathe is now available for streaming on Netflix. If you haven’t seen it yet, be prepared for a rollercoaster of scares that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
