Hi all!
Today I am reviewing new-release, horror: Exit 8. It hit cinemas this month, allowing me the opportunity of seeing it on the big screen. Strange events plague a young man as he searches for the exit in an endless subway tunnel. Without further ado, let’s get into it!
Note: This post is in partnership with JustWatch.
WHAT WORKED:
I recognise my bias but I love the game. I’ve been a big fan of it for years. Not only have I watched multiple people play it, I’ve played it myself. It has the best concept and is genuinely unsettling. In the year of disappointing game to movie adaptations (i.e. Return to Silent Hill, The Mortuary Assistant etc), it was great to see this one rise to the occasion. Not to mention, I adore a time loop story. The depth that was added to quite a simple premise was truly impressive. I knew exactly what they were going for. Some may find it bizarre but when you strip it back, this film is an allegory about embracing parenthood, even when you aren’t ready for it. I was genuinely unsettled, disturbed and intrigued. Japanese cinema rarely steers me wrong.
WHAT DIDN’T WORK:
I keep seeing the same tired critique: ‘it’s frustrating how bad he is at the game’. Isn’t that the point? If he reached Exit 8 on his first attempt, the movie would be over! Imagine suddenly finding yourself in a time loop? You would be struggling too. The only true negative I can offer are the intense sound effects. I had to cover my ears several times. There are the grating cries of a newborn baby, the clomping of footsteps, the ringing of phones and more. Those on the spectrum, you’ve been warned.
OVERALL STAR RATING:
I gave it 4.5/5 stars. This is how you do a game to movie adaptation!
Have you seen Exit 8? What did you think of it?
Peace & Love xoxo