Movie Review: Overlord (2018)
Overlord is a thrilling mix of war and horror that delivers an intense, action-packed experience with a surprising dose of body horror and gore. Directed by Julius Avery and produced by J.J. Abrams, the film takes the classic World War II setting and injects it with a gruesome sci-fi twist, creating a genre-bending spectacle that keeps viewers on edge.
Plot Summary
The movie follows a group of American paratroopers dropped behind enemy lines in Nazi-occupied France on the eve of D-Day. Their mission is to destroy a German radio tower, but they soon discover something far more sinister—a secret Nazi experiment that has created horrifying super-soldiers. As the soldiers fight for survival, they must battle not only the enemy but also the monstrous abominations lurking beneath a church-turned-laboratory.
What Works
- Tense Atmosphere & Pacing: Overlord starts as a war thriller, immersing the audience in the brutality of battle before seamlessly transitioning into full-blown horror. The tension builds gradually, leading to some truly shocking and grotesque moments.
- Gore & Special Effects: The practical effects and makeup are outstanding, creating disturbing and realistic mutations that elevate the film’s horror elements. The body horror is reminiscent of The Thing and Re-Animator, making for some truly grotesque sequences.
- Strong Cast & Performances: Jovan Adepo shines as the protagonist, Private Boyce, delivering a grounded performance that anchors the film’s chaos. Wyatt Russell also brings a solid, gritty presence as the hardened Corporal Ford.
- Creative Blend of Genres: The film successfully balances action, suspense, and horror without feeling disjointed. It’s Saving Private Ryan meets Resident Evil, with a dose of Wolfenstein-style madness.
What Falls Short
- Thin Character Development: While the performances are strong, some characters feel underdeveloped, serving as archetypes rather than fully fleshed-out individuals.
- Predictability in the Second Half: Once the horror elements take full effect, the plot follows a relatively standard trajectory, making some of the twists feel expected.
Final Verdict
Overlord is an exhilarating, blood-soaked ride that delivers exactly what it promises—high-octane war action fused with grotesque horror. While it may not be the most groundbreaking film in terms of story, its execution is top-notch, making it a must-watch for fans of both war movies and creature horror.
⭐ Rating: 8/10 – A wild, gory, and entertaining thrill ride!
