The Midnight Man Plays Bloody Mary Game
It’s disappointing when a film doesn’t live up to our expectations, especially when it comes from a prestigious production company like IFC Midnight. “The Midnight Man” had the potential to earn points with horror movie enthusiasts with its blend of “Bloody Mary Game” vibes and folklore elements. However, sometimes even promising concepts can fall short in execution. In this case, it seems that the film failed to deliver an engaging and enjoyable experience. I was left feeling annoyed throughout. It’s unfortunate when a movie with such potential ends up being a letdown.
The Midnight Man begins with a girl and her friends playing a mysterious game eerily similar to the Bloody Mary Game. They summon a creature unearthed from the depths of scary bedtime stories and nightmares.
The Midnight Man Movie
The so-called storyline, if you can even call it that, seems to defy all logic and reason. It’s almost as if the characters have been intentionally written to behave in inexplicably foolish ways. I’ve seen horror movies where the character’s actions are so absurdly unintelligent that it’s as if they’ve willingly taken a pill that erases all common sense. Isn’t it ironic how characters in their own stories have no say in how their lives unfold? If they had any shred of self-awareness, they would have, at some point in their painfully short 95-minute existence, suffered a traumatic head injury. Although I must admit, the acting performances from the cast were undeniably outstanding.
I must say, there is a certain element that truly frustrates me when individuals are fully aware of something lurking inside their residence. And yet, absurdly enough, they feel compelled to bellow out the question “Who’s there?” Count me not-so-thrilled. I find myself rather indifferent toward recycled storylines, too. Especially those with no added value. I am, however, rather fond of the horror clichés that some individuals incessantly complain about. One simply has to accept the fact that patchy phone coverage, cheap jump scares, and malevolent spirits will continue to plague the horror genre indefinitely. Embrace it.
Horror Tropes, Love Them or Hate Them
In a remarkable twist, The Midnight Man takes a bold departure from the conventional narrative structure. Employing a captivating non-linear timeline, we are swiftly transported to the present day. It is worth acknowledging the film’s ingenious portrayal of its central ensemble, particularly the character of Kelly (played by the talented Emily Haine). What sets Kelly apart is her self-awareness and her ability to casually reference the eerie world of Creepypasta. However, it begs the question: What purpose does this knowledge serve if she ventures against her own instincts?
In the realm of the mysterious game that demands a blood offering, each participant finds themselves coming face to face with their innermost demons. Despite encountering unnerving situations, they nonchalantly dismiss it all as merely part of the game. Indulge me as I envision a scenario where I submerge myself in a pool of blood and then pretend a game made me imagine it.
Even after witnessing the awe-inspiring presence of the formidable Midnight Man, doubts still linger among this intrepid group. Furthermore, the enigmatic rules of the game continue to baffle them. The Midnight Man cunningly preys on the deepest fears of its players. Alex Luster (played by the talented Gabrielle Haugh), despite harboring a dread of blood, fearlessly dives into the game without hesitation, stoically enduring even the most grotesque acts. One would expect that any ordinary person would be unsettled by the prospect of having their face mangled beyond recognition or partaking in the demise of an innocent creature such as a bunny. However, in this narrative, anything seems possible.
The Bloody Mary Game Flipped
I understand that everyone has their own unique preferences when it comes to films. While some may find enjoyment in the unpredictable and non-scary elements of this particular movie, others may appreciate a more intentional, straightforward horror experience. Personally, I tend to gravitate towards films that combine clever storytelling with original ideas. In the case of The Midnight Man, it didn’t quite meet my expectations. However, I must admit that the concept of whispering into the intercom was indeed intriguing. We all have our own tastes, but this film didn’t resonate with me.
Despite my best efforts to find something positive about this film, I must admit that Gavin Kelly’s cinematography fell short of my expectations. The dark and eerie atmosphere, although intended, did little to enhance the overall experience. The location, while spacious, failed to evoke any genuine sense of creepiness. As for the Midnight Man, I reluctantly admit that the character design was somewhat interesting. However, it was not enough to salvage the mediocrity of this film. Even with these small positives, I stand by my initial one-star rating.
I give The Midnight Man
1 first kiss when bodies be droppin’ out of 5.
Film Info, Cast, and Release for The Midnight Man
Director and Screenplay: Travis Zariwny with co-writer Rob Kennedy.
Release: Canada in September 2016 and DVD in March 2018.
Starring: Summer H. Howell, Keenan Lehmann, Meredith Rose Robert Englund, and Lin Shaye.
Genres: Horror | Thriller | Suspense
Watch the Trailer
How to Play the Bloody Mary Game
Group participation is required and the player chants the name, Bloody Mary. The woman who comes is a bad spirit said to be able to predict the future. You should walk up some stairs backward and ensure the lights are turned out. When standing in front of a mirror you may see your future husband but more likely will see Mary who will show you something else.
