Lecture Notes: Critique of the 'Until Dawn' Movie

Overview

• Subject: Critique of the 'Until Dawn' movie adaptation from a video game.
• Key Opinions:
  • The movie deviates significantly from the game.
  • Contains some entertaining elements but largely fails in execution.

Initial Impressions

• Trailer Analysis:
  • Movie shows little resemblance to the video game it's based on.
  • Disrespectful to the source material.
• Comparison with Other Adaptations:
  • Similar issues as seen in the Halo TV series.

Movie Concept

• Unique Concept: Characters must survive in a spooky house until dawn, trapped in a loop of repeatedly dying and respawning.
  • Resembles films like 'Groundhog Day' or 'Happy Death Day'.
• Game vs. Movie:
  • Movie concept diverges from the game's choice-driven survival mechanics.
  • Only aspect borrowed is the butterfly effect theme.

Movie Structure

First Half

• Enjoyable Elements:
  • Innovative and humorous character deaths.
  • Creative scenarios with different horror elements each night.
  • Peter Stormare's cameo, though underutilized.
• Spoiler Warning: Movie becomes enjoyable through over-the-top, wacky character deaths and lore tidbits.
• Characterization: Character development is weak and one-dimensional.

Second Half

• Critique:
  • The movie loses momentum; feels rushed and poorly executed.
  • Skips from the third night to the thirteenth night.
  • Lacks development and continuity.
• Poor Attempts at Lore Integration:
  • Weak attempts to tie into the game's lore.
  • Final showdowns and resolutions appear convenient and illogical.
  • The climax with Peter Stormare’s character is comical rather than thrilling.

Final Thoughts

• Overall Critique:
  • The movie had potential with its concept but failed in execution, especially in the second half.
  • Characters lacked depth, and the story execution was flawed.
  • It could have been better-paced to maintain the initial amusement.
  • Labeled as a poor video game adaptation with some missed opportunities.

Conclusion

• General Sentiment:
  • Not the worst adaptation but falls into the lower tier of video game-based movies.
  • The movie’s first half showed promise that wasn't maintained throughout.