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"Blumhouse's Truth or Dare" is the " Showgirls " of post-" Scream " slasher movies: it's not campy nor emotionally involving enough to be more than the sum of its ungainly parts. This is a PG-13-rated horror movie where college seniors are persecuted by a haunted version of Truth or Date, a party game that's more menacing than Twister, but not as dangerous as Spin the Bottle. There are ways to make such a campy premise—play by the rules, or be forced to embarrass yourself and/or hurt somebody—work, either through sincerity or capable snarkiness. The makers of "Blumhouse's Truth or Dare" attempted the former option by trying to make their hormonal protagonists just sympathetic enough that we care what happens when they try to impale themselves on a pool cue, or gouge out an eye with a fountain pen. Unfortunately, director Jeff Wadlow (" Kick-Ass 2 ," "Cry Wolf") and his three credited co-writers don't go far enough towards either of their film's primary impulses—humanizing their immature subjects and/or making them die amusingly sadistic deaths—making "Truth or Dare" feel like a genre movie that's at war with itself. 

Let's start from the assumption that you should care about the teens in "Blumhouse's Truth or Dare" if you want to enjoy the spectacle of watching them play a potentially life-threatening slumber group activity. There are, admittedly, a handful of scenes that serve to up-end our canned expectations of who these twenty-somethings are, and what their pre-graduation lives are like. But many of these assumptions are based on superficial generalities, ones that would be better applied to a fluffier teen sex comedy set in high school. Several stock types vie for our attention. Our heroine is, of course, reserved Olivia ( Lucy Hale ), a moral-minded, smarter-than-average blank slate who gets roped into one last pre-college spring break by her flirty best friend Markie ( Violett Beane ). Markie brings along a number of their mutual best friends, including Ronnie ( Sam Lerner ), a leering but harmless horndog, and Brad ( Hayden Szeto ), a mostly indistinct supporting character whose most salient trait is that he's openly gay.

Brad and Ronnie are the most revealingly under-developed meat puppets in the film. Their peers are also treated like human-shaped props, since they also primarily serve to hold up the film whenever an expository line must be said or a co-lead's assumptions challenged. The sketch-thin nature of these characters isn't as offensive or bothersome: hot guy Lucas ( Tyler Posey ) is a prize for Olivia and Markie to fight over—though he does have a cute one-liner that suggests otherwise—and dickish law student Tyson ( Nolan Gerard Funk ) has all of the bite, and in-your-face attitude of a garden variety jock, a quality that's mildly amusing given his chosen area of study.

But Ronnie is a one-note joke who screams "no homo" before he is teased with the possibility of giving another guy a lap dance. As with Lucas, Ronnie has a moment where he suggests that he's capable of growing out of his adolescent need to hit on any woman in sight. But isn't college—or, at least, the version of college we often seen in movies—the place where young adults are supposed to learn who they are (or maybe who they want to be)? Why then is this soon-to-be-college grad neither villainous, nor good enough to warrant more than just a second of reflection? Shouldn't he—or, more accurately, Wadlow and his fellow co-creators—know what he is either going or trying to become?

And what about Brad? The poor kid's queerness is almost exclusively defined by his fear of coming out to his police officer father. The reaction that Brad's dad gives him after he comes out is supposed to be unexpected, but it's not, really, once you consider the confusing paternal tone that defines "Blumhouse's Truth or Dare." If this movie were a parent, it'd be the confusing cool dad who tries to rap with the kids about the dangers that they're going to face in the real world—despite the fact that those dangers are obviously cool dad's rose-tinted memories of the perils that he faced back when he graduated from college. 

In this mixed-up, none-too-bright context, a sentient game of Truth or Dare is a messed-up parenting tool. These bright young things are gonna learn to be truthful to themselves, doggone it, even if it means hurting themselves or others during the learning process. Because apparently, stabbing yourself in the eye when you fail to come clean in a job interview is a fitting punishment. And surviving trauma—like considering ways to come clean to your best friend about your not-so-secret crush on their boyfriend—builds character. 

"Blumhouse's Truth or Dare" is not that different from sadistic horror movies like the " Saw " and " Final Destination " films, franchises that also focus on a group of imperiled everypeople who are faced with a perversely life-affirming gauntlet that challenges their shared misapprehension that they're going to live forever. Once again, the joke is on our heroes, but this time, every cruel punchline is seemingly pulled at the last minute. We're supposed to like these victims, not gasp in horror and delight when they're compelled to die campy—but bloodless!—deaths by an evil game you play when you're kinda bored and kinda hormonal, but not imaginative or bold enough to do much about it. 

Still, it's fitting that this confused and confusing horror flick is the first film produced by Blumhouse with the company's name in the title. Blumhouse is the studio that recently earned prestige for their crucial role in helping comedian-turned-filmmaker  Jordan Peele make " Get Out ," one of the best American horror films of recent memory. They've also produced Spike Lee's "BlacKkKLansman," which will screen in the main competition at this year's Cannes Film Festival. 

Blumhouse is also the company that continues to crank out increasingly derivative sequels to polished, but unchallenging programmers like the " Insidious ," " Paranormal Activity " and " The Purge " films. "Blumhouse's Truth or Dare" is closer to its title company's more formulaic horror films, but at times, its creators seem to struggle to say something more. Then the moment passes, and Wadlow's film goes back to being a slasher movie whose cruelty only ostensibly serves as a form of fatherly kindness.

Simon Abrams

Simon Abrams is a native New Yorker and freelance film critic whose work has been featured in  The New York Times ,  Vanity Fair ,  The Village Voice,  and elsewhere.

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Truth or Dare (2018)

Rated PG-13 for violence and disturbing content, alcohol abuse, some sexuality, language and thematic material.

100 minutes

Tyler Posey as Lucas

Lucy Hale as Olivia

Violett Beane as Markie

Sophia Taylor Ali as Penelope

Landon Liboiron as Carter

Nolan Gerard Funk as Tyson

• Jeff Wadlow

Writer (story)

• Michael Reisz
• Jillian Jacobs
• Christopher Roach

Cinematographer

• Jacques Jouffret
• Sean Albertson
• Matthew Margeson

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Film Review: ‘Truth or Dare’

In a scare-free horror film, a clique of college kids is haunted by a demon version of truth or dare, which gets them to reveal their one-note selves.

By Owen Gleiberman

Owen Gleiberman

Chief Film Critic

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Some horror films deal in torture, some are torture to sit through, and some, like “ Truth or Dare ,” take off from a premise that is, in a word, tortured. In this decidedly inferior Blumhouse production, a clique of college kids head down to Mexico for spring break. After a week of partying, they’re lured to a crumbling, out-of-the-way church mission, where they’re goaded into playing a midnight game of truth or dare. There are a few weird tensions and omens, but only after they get back do they realize what’s happened: They’ve been followed home by a deadly version of the game. They’re being haunted by the demon spirit of truth or dare. If your reaction to this revelation falls somewhere between “Oh, wow!” and “Huh?,” you’ll be right in sync with audiences for “Truth or Dare,” which is a frantic muddle of a who-will-be-the-next-to-die? youth horror film.

It works something like this. Back on campus, one of our empty/pretty heroines or heroes will be standing in the middle of, say, the university library, and a fellow spring breaker will tilt his or her head down ever so slightly and burst into an evil leering smile that recalls the digitally doctored faces in the classic 1994 video for Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun.” That sick grinning face will then issue the demand of “Truth or dare.”  Whichever one of those options the person in question chooses, if they fail to tell the whole truth — or to properly execute the dare — they will not be long for this world.

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In theory, this could and should result in a highly sensational B–horror film in which an ever more scandalous series of dares and confessions leads to extravagant set pieces like the ones in the “Final Destination” series. An early scene pops with just this sort of bubble-gum dread: After some macho posturing, Ronnie (Sam Lerner), the group’s biggest douche, takes a dare to stand on a pool table and show off his “pool cue.” But when he chickens out, failing to parade himself with the proper exhibitionism (i.e., full frontal), he then trips and falls to his death in a relatively satisfying fashion. Not a great scene — but, in its way, a promising one.

“Truth or Dare,” however, doesn’t build on that tasty morsel of supernatural murder. There are several more dares, but the film is mostly interested in “the truth” — i.e., in forcing its characters to reveal their hidden layers, even though as characters they have no layers. We’re watching ciphers stripped psychologically bare. Does Olivia (Lucy Hale), the group’s do-gooder and social justice warrior, really love Lucas (Tyler Posey), the philandering boyfriend of her BFF, Markie (Violett Beane), who’s like a decadent sorority version of Kate Hudson? Will Brad (Hayden Szeto) come out to his hard-ass cop father (Tom Choi)? And what will happen when the game forces the future med student Tyson (Nolan Gerard Funk) to reveal that he’s selling illegal prescriptions? What will happen is…not very much. Instead of generating shock and awe, or even a few honest cheap thrills, “Truth or Dare” proceeds as a series of soap-opera revelations about characters we could hardly care less about. It’s like “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” crossed with the world’s most convoluted episode of “Gossip Girl.”

The movie isn’t scary, it isn’t gripping, it isn’t fun, and it isn’t fueled by any sort of clever compulsion. It’s just a strangely arduous exercise that feels increasingly frantic and arbitrary as it goes along. Olivia, the nominal heroine, finally heads down to Mexico to track down the source of the game, in what has to be one of the rare “explanatory” movie scenes — it features an old Mexican woman with her tongue cut out who hasn’t spoken in 60 years, but manages to write messages for our benefit in broken English — that actually renders what we’re watching less comprehensible. By the end, audiences are likely to turn on “Truth or Dare,” a horror film that’s neither truthful nor daring but, in essence, a wayward movie pitch meeting in search of an explanation for itself.

Reviewed at AMC Empire, New York, April 10, 2018. MPAA Rating: PG-13. Running time: 100 MIN.

• Production: A Universal Pictures release of a Blumhouse Productions prod. Producer: Jason Blum. Executive producers: Christopher Roach, Jeff Wadlow.
• Crew: Director: Jeff Wadlow. Screenplay: Jillian Jacobs, Michael Reisz, Christopher Roach, Jeff Wadlow. Camera (color, widescreen): Jacques Jouffret. Editor: Sean Albertson. Music: Matthew Margeson.
• With: Lucy Hale, Tyler Posey, Violett Beane, Sophia Ali, Landon Liboiron, Nolan Gerard Funk, Sam Lerner, Brady Smith, Hayden Szeto, Morgan Lindholm, Aurora Perrineau, Tom Choi.

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'Truth or Dare' Review: Blumhouse Delivers Delicious Demonic Melodrama

The paranormal thriller is light on scares, but packs in plenty of soapy entertainment.

Blumhouse taps into angst and the brutality of teenage friendships in  Truth or Dare , the latest chiller from the red-hot horror studio that spent last year triumphing at the box office (and even the Oscars) with the films Get Out , Split , and Happy Death Day . Truth or Dare isn't on the level of those titles, though it's clearly intended to carry on the light-hearted, soft-horror antics of Happy Death Day  (unfortunately without the former's sharp wit and creativity), That said, but it does have its own brand of soapy, giggling thrills to deliver, even if it sometimes has you wondering if your laughing at the movie or with it.

Lucy Hale ( Pretty Little Liars ) stars as Olivia, the goody-two-shoes of her friend group, who plans to spend her spring break building houses with Habitat for Humanity (and evangelizing about it on her YouTube channel) until her harder-partying friends remind her it's their last spring break together and snatch her up for a tequila-fuelled trip to Mexico. Leading the charge is Markie ( The Flash 's Violett Beane ), Olivia's BFF, who's grieving the loss of her father and has a good heart, despite the fact that she's constantly cheating on her boyfriend, the toothless all-American sweetheart Marcus ( Teen Wolf 's Tyler Poesy ). If that isn't enough crisis in one sentence for you, it's also painfully obvious that Marcus and Olivia have feelings for each other, a fact that flies right under Markie's easily distracted nose, but is crystal clear to everyone else.

The rest of the squad is fairly one-note, but they fill out some iconic tropes of the teen drama. The standout is Brad ( The Edge of Seventeen star Hayden Szeto ), the son of a hardass cop who can't quite work up the nerve to tell his dad he's gay, despite being out and proud on campus. Then there's the smirking, semi-douchey couple; Party girl Penelope ( Grey Anatomy 's Sophia Taylor Ali ) and her Ken Doll boyfriend Tyson ( Counterpar t's Nolan Gerard Funk ), a smug pre-med bro from a long line of doctors who feels so Gossip Girl his last name should be van der Woodsen. Finally, there's Ronnie ( Sam Lerner ), super douche who's always inviting himself where he's not wanted.

During their last night of heavy partying in Mexico, the friends are lured to a decrepit church by obviously sketchy scruffy boy Carter ( Landon Liboiron ), where they play a harmless round of truth or dare. Except it's not harmless. And not just because Tyson's a total dick about it, throwing Olivia under the bus the first chance he gets. Sure, there's the requisite lap dance and girl-on-girl kiss, but when Carter chooses truth, he reveals that he brought them there because he's comfortable watching strangers die as long as it means he gets to live and runs out on them. Not before telling Olivia that the game is real, and if they want to live, they have to play. Sure enough, when they get back home, the game follows them, sending messages anyway it can, be it literal writing on the wall or swarms of warped, smiling people: "Truth or Dare?" It's not long before bodies start dropping when people fail to follow through on the horrible things they're asked to do or say.

The concept borrows heavily from familiar horror hits. The only way to save yourself is to pass on the curse, which is right out of The Ring and It Follows playbooks, and death comes for them in the order they played the game, a very Final Destination touch. However, you won't find any Final Destination -worthy kills here. For every bit of horror influence, there is double from teen soaps. With a leading cast cobbled together from some of TV's most popular teen series,  Truth or Dare plays like a CW-adjacent thriller that employs melodrama in the place of violence to torment its characters.

Sure, there are some dares, and the film employs the "two truths and a dare" rule to keep up the action, but even those bits hinge on inflicting emotional damage alongside the threat of violence, preying on the characters specific demons.  But the real juice is in the truths -- the demon messing with this kids is a messy bitch who lives for drama and it uses every truth to dig into their secrets and regrets for maximum damage. You can practically picture him filing his nails and cackling gleefully while he stages a bloody soap opera for his own amusment. Ultimately, Truth or Dare is about the danger of keeping secrets, told through the perspective to two best friends trying to hold on to their relationship despite their changing lives, and yes, a weirdly bitchy demon.

That makes for a movie that is almost never scary, something that will surely rub certain moviegoers the wrong way. In the place of scares, you get a delicious, giddy avalanche of truth bombs and backstabbing betrayal that make for a fine supernatural soap. Director Jeff Wadlow ( Kick-Ass 2) struggles with tone at times, but he employs a good sense of timing and clearly knows what kind of movie he's making, allowing the audience to have fun with it instead of turning into a self-serious drudge. A second act set-piece involving an alcoholic, a big bottle of vodka and the perils of gravity delivers the kind of fun-fuelled thrills you wish the movie had a bit more of. Indeed, it's a shame the film didn't expend more energy coming up with clever or surprising kills and scare gags -- surely a missed opportunity, even if they had to keep it PG-13 -- but what we do get is plenty entertaining, filled with gasp-worthy moments and a surprising, profoundly dark moral cynicism.

Truth or Dar e won't be the best horror movie you see this year, it's not even the best one you can see right now, but it has enough spicy drama to make The CW blush and the paranormal slant offers enough twisty thrills to keep you strapped in for the whole silly supernatural romp.

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Truth or Dare Review

The trailer has been everywhere, so I have no doubt you’re familiar with the scenario. A group of college friends and acquaintances spend their last spring break partying at a nondescript resort in Mexico. On their last night, Olivia pulls a handsome stranger, who coerces the group into playing truth or dare at the site of a ruined mission. Secrets and bitchy undertones start to emerge, the stranger creeps them out, and the holiday concludes on a sour note. But once home, spooky voices and weird imaginings keep raising the question: “Truth or dare?” And Olivia and the others soon realise that they have to keep playing that game or suffer horrific consequences.

What gossip will they face? What shocking acts will they perform? And how does the game end, anyway?

Here’s the thing: I really didn’t want to write this review. Basically, the story and quality of writing in Truth or Dare were inconsistent and patchy; and as if to prove that, I thought the film was alright while I was watching it, and then struggled to remember it straight after. So anyway, let’s not have that struggle go to waste.

The teenagers are the spoilt, oversexed type beloved by countless horror films and parodied by Cabin in the Woods ; but a little more two-dimensional and shallow than average. The acting is competent, though the roles are largely undemanding; none of the cast stood out particularly.

The direction was good, with the developing tension working just fine; indeed I am kind of surprised I’d not heard of Jeff Wadlow before. But then he was able to own the direction; whereas the writing and production were seemingly done by committee. The moments and whole scenes of poor writing especially spoilt that tension; which is a rotten shame, as some aspects were clearly well thought out. Let me see if I can expand without giving away too much of the story.

The Big Bad in Truth or Dare is an invisible presence manipulating and taking advantage of the main characters, rather than a villain. So just like in Final Destination , the horror is in violence they do to themselves or each other, sometimes by elaborate and/or brutal accident. Once the scene is set, the first two thirds of the film have the group playing their turns and taking some nasty risks. I went in expecting one clichéd violent accident after another, but was pleased to see that not every participant in the game automatically had to die; the friends were able to look out for each other (when it suited them) to varying degrees of success, so that prevented the film from becoming wholly predictable. And there were several little twists and turns about the rules of the game, its background and the players, which served to keep the audience paying attention, though I’m aware some audience members found those minor twists contrived.

The last third then took the plot in a different direction, although the game still continued… a Nancy Drew-type quest to solve the mystery of the evil game and find a way out of its spell. Which again was great, and kept the audience engaged (I would comment on it being a far-fetched solution, but the initial premise was anyway.) But that really didn’t compensate for the daft moments, the cheap-looking twisted “smiles”, the whining, callous brats, the hasty conclusion. The story had promise, the director and cast did good jobs, but too many cooks did the writing, and I don’t think they could be arsed to collaborate properly.

Go and watch it if you want; if you’ve already seen everything else on offer. But it’s tiresome. Blumhouse Studios seems to have stopped trying, which is the wrong move to make: it can ruin a reputation made for them by such fine examples of modern horror as Insidious , Get Out and Paranormal Activity . I can understand someone watching Truth or Dare for the mouth-watering Violett Beane; but buy a poster instead. It will last longer. And if you want to watch some entertaining and imaginative killings, I can recommend the Thai film 13 Game of Death (or even the American remake, 13 Sins ).

Article by Alix Turner

Alix joined Ready Steady Cut back in 2017, bringing their love for horror movies and nasty gory films. Unsurprisingly, they are Rotten Tomatoes Approved, bringing vast experience in film critiquing. You will likely see Alix enjoying a bloody horror movie or attending a genre festival.

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REVIEW: Lucy Hale's 'Truth or Dare' horror movie is a wannabe 'Final Destination' but it keeps you guessing until the end

Warning: There are minor spoilers ahead.

The concept of " Truth or Dare " may sound juvenile.

The ubiquitous party game follows a group of friends back home from a vacation after a decades-old curse is unleashed. If you've seen the trailers, you may have rolled your eyes as the friends are forced to play the game until each of them are picked off one by one.

And then there are those creepy demon faces accompanying the movie's marketing that look like a Snapchat filter gone wrong. 

Admittedly, the concept of a horror movie built around a game is a bit silly. Remember " Ouija "? But "Truth or Dare" has just enough twists to escape being predictable, which makes for a refreshing turn on the genre.

Why you should care: It's a Blumhouse movie with the star of "Pretty Little Liars."

Blumhouse Productions has been on a hot streak lately and this is the production company's latest. If you're scratching your head, wait, you've seen the company's movies. They're responsible for recent hits including "Split," "Happy Death Day," and Oscar-winning movie "Get Out."

If you're a "Pretty Little Liars" fan, Lucy Hale is the star of the thriller and she can definitely hold her own outside of the TV series.

What's Hot: Despite the juvenile concept, the film isn't predictable and may remind you of "Final Destination." 

Several times throughout the movie I found myself thinking "Truth or Dare" had a similar concept to the "Final Destination" franchise. That's a good thing. 

In "Final Destination," the survivors of a plane crash are hunted down one by one in the order they were supposed to die by death itself. Similarly, in "Truth or Dare," everyone has to keep playing the game or they'll die. The only way the game ends is when everyone is dead, unless Olivia (Hale) and her friends can find a way to break the curse on them.

Now, "Truth or Dare" probably isn't the next "Final Destination," but it's a clever spin on a familiar setup.

Several times I was surprised to see that when I expected the film to go in one direction, it veered off course. When you start to wonder why everyone doesn't decide to stick to telling "truth" to make the game go by easy, the movie has an answer for that. 

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That's a sign of a Blumhouse movie. It usually knows not to insult a viewer's intelligence or fall for the pitfalls of a corny slasher. 

Like the "Final Destination" series, I figured the curse would find a way to be broken by the film's end, but I should have realized that wouldn't be the case. 

This film has no happy ending. A twist at the end may have you draw another connection to the end of the recent "Rings" reboot.

It's also refreshing Hale's lead character isn't a one-dimensional college girl in a slasher film.

At the film's start, Olivia claims if she had to choose between her group of friends dying to save the world or vice versa that she would rather have herself and her friends die for the greater good. 

At the time, she was telling the truth. But as the movie progresses, you watch Olivia devolve as she becomes desperate to find a way for herself and her friends to survive. It's an interesting character study in how someone will deal under pressure when put to the test.

What's Not: You'll feel like you're watching regurgitated trailers for about the first half hour.

The first half hour or so of the movie plays out exactly like the trailers. A group of friends go to Mexico, they play a game of truth or dare. They head home, the game follows them back. As the game starts to take victims, the first few truth or dare challenges play out exactly as depicted in the trailers. 

There's little surprise there and that's frustrating. 

Thankfully, the rest of the movie makes up for it by being less predictable. 

If you're not a fan of cheap jump scares, there are a few throughout the movie you can see coming a mile away. It's also tough to take those Snapchat-looking faces seriously. 

Warning: There is one really gross scene that may make you cringe.

The trailers show Hale's character ask another to cut out their tongue, and she's not joking. Someone is asked to remove their tongue with a knife.

I can't tell you how much of it is shown. I had to turn my head.

The Bottom Line: It's no "Get Out," but "Truth or Dare" has its moments.

This isn't top-tier horror, but if you're looking for a teen thriller to enjoy on Friday the 13th with friends, you may have a fun time. If you're looking for an excellent movie in the genre, we'd recommend John Krasinski's directorial debut, "A Quiet Place."

"Truth or Dare" is in theaters Friday. Watch the trailer below.

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Truth or Dare [2017] (2/5)

Posted by Karina "ScreamQueen" Adelgaard | Oct 4, 2018 | 3 minutes

Truth or Dare is on Netflix now, but it was originally a SyFy horror movie production. And yes, it follows the same concept as the 2018 movie with the identical title. Even if the plot differs quite a bit!

Cassandra scerbo as “the final girl”.

The aforementioned star from the  Sharknado movie franchise is Cassandra Scerbo. And of course, her being one of the only actors with some recognition, she  is  the obvious final girl.

But does  Truth or Dare choose the obvious character to be “The Final Girl”? You’ll have to watch the movie to find out. We’re not going to do spoilers about that here.

And don’t worry if you don’t know Cassandra Scerbo. You should still be happy with her performance in this movie.

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About The Author

Karina "ScreamQueen" Adelgaard

I write reviews and recaps on Heaven of Horror. And yes, it does happen that I find myself screaming, when watching a good horror movie. I love psychological horror, survival horror and kick-ass women. Also, I have a huge soft spot for a good horror-comedy. Oh yeah, and I absolutely HATE when animals are harmed in movies, so I will immediately think less of any movie, where animals are harmed for entertainment (even if the animals are just really good actors). Fortunately, horror doesn't use this nearly as much as comedy. And people assume horror lovers are the messed up ones. Go figure!

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Foolish supernatural horror has lots of death, drinking.

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

The film's attempts at positive messages ring holl

A strong, smart female character is made to seem l

Plenty of horror-movie violence, though actual mom

Non-graphic references to sex, lots of hooking up.

Occasional use of words including "f--k," "s--t,"

Mention of Snapchat.

Quite a lot of drinking by college-age young peopl

Parents need to know that Truth or Dare is a supernatural horror movie based on the same-named party game. It's quite violent, with the usual assortment of unusual horror-movie killings; they're gruesome -- think broken neck, stabbings, shootings, someone being set on fire -- but their gore is restrained just…

Positive Messages

The film's attempts at positive messages ring hollow. The supposedly virtuous main character turns out not to be. On the (small) plus side, a gay character who comes out isn't rejected.

Positive Role Models

A strong, smart female character is made to seem loyal and virtuous, but that's thrown away at the end. Some characters are nice, but overall there's a whole lot of youthful foolishness and partying going on.

Violence & Scariness

Plenty of horror-movie violence, though actual moments of penetration/bloodletting are limited. Young people die: one with neck broken on a pool table, one stabbed in the brain with a pen. Also shootings, stabbings, and a person set on fire. One character allows her hand to be hit with a hammer. Another falls from a roof onto a mattress and is OK. Recollections of rape/molestation/attempted improprieties between an adult man and a young girl. Evidence of a person having cut out her tongue years ago.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Sex, Romance & Nudity

Non-graphic references to sex, lots of hooking up. In one cut-short sex scene, a woman's bare back is shown from the waist up, but there's no graphic nudity.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.

Occasional use of words including "f--k," "s--t," "a--hole," "d--k," "hell," "crap," "oh my God," as well as innuendo.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Products & Purchases

Drinking, drugs & smoking.

Quite a lot of drinking by college-age young people, including spring break sequences and partying. One young woman seems to be a budding alcoholic. No consequences for the drinking. One med student forges prescriptions to sell to other students. Cigarette smoking.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Truth or Dare is a supernatural horror movie based on the same-named party game. It's quite violent, with the usual assortment of unusual horror-movie killings; they're gruesome -- think broken neck, stabbings, shootings, someone being set on fire -- but their gore is restrained just enough to maintain a teen-friendly rating. College-age characters (played by the likes of Pretty Little Liars ' Lucy Hale and Teen Wolf 's Tyler Posey ) smoke and drink a lot, without consequences (one character appears to be a budding alcoholic), and there's some swearing, including "f--k," "s--t," "a--hole," and more. Characters also hook up frequently, though there's no nudity beyond a woman's bare back during a sex scene that's cut short. Characters also recollect young girls being raped by an adult authority figure, as well as another attempted inappropriate relationship. To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails .

Where to Watch

Videos and photos.

Community Reviews

• Parents say (30)
• Kids say (71)

Based on 30 parent reviews

What's the Story?

TRUTH OR DARE starts with "good girl" Olivia ( Lucy Hale ) skipping out on a Habitat for Humanity commitment to go party with friends in Mexico, so you know there's going to be trouble. Her BFF Markie ( Violett Beane ); Markie's boyfriend, Lucas ( Tyler Posey ); and all of their pals drink for a week, and then decide it would be fun to go to an off-limits ruined mission -- in a remote location, in total darkness, in a foreign country, with a guy who looks like Harry Potter grown up wrong ( Landon Liboiron ) -- to play Truth or Dare. Something evil shows up, and after the young people go home, they start seeing and hearing bizarre things, trapping them into a continuation of the game, now turned magically deadly.

Is It Any Good?

This horror film is unoriginal, pandering, and nondescript enough to be brushed off -- until the ending, which is so maddeningly foolish that it practically requires a warning to stay away. The premise of Truth or Dare is ridiculous, of course; it's yet another in a long line of "innocent games turned into devilish rites" genre movies. These films systematically knock off their attractive young cast members, while the gore, sex, and language are all controlled enough to ensure a teen-friendly rating. Somehow, though, that doesn't stop the movie from using child rape and other inappropriate adult-young person relationships as plot devices. It's impossible to guess exactly how the pitch meeting for this movie went, but it sure seems like someone said, "Hey, those Snapchat filters look weird ... could we make a movie about that?"

The acting, writing, and directing are all standard. The supposed surprises are badly telegraphed. Without anything genuinely eerie or new to offer, it relies almost solely on very loud noises to affect viewers. And then the ending (which won't be spoiled here) so violates everything the film has set up -- including even the most generous moviegoer's agreement to suspend disbelief -- that it has to be called out. There were audible groans and chuckles in the audience. Were the filmmakers totally out of ideas? Did they just lowball their estimate of their audience's IQ? Were they that desperate to set up a franchise? If you're lucky, you'll never be forced to ponder these questions.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about what it takes to scare viewers these days. How does a viewer's age affect that? Do younger viewers, having seen fewer horror films, require less creativity? Is there anything scary about Truth or Dare ? What's the impact of media violence on kids?

How does the movie portray drinking and smoking ? Are there realistic consequences? Why is that important?

Does the movie have a consistent moral code? Does that code shift? Are the questions it raises interesting?

Movie Details

• In theaters : April 13, 2018
• On DVD or streaming : July 17, 2018
• Cast : Lucy Hale , Tyler Posey , Violett Beane
• Director : Jeff Wadlow
• Inclusion Information : Female actors, Latino actors
• Studio : Universal Pictures
• Genre : Horror
• Topics : Monsters, Ghosts, and Vampires
• Run time : 100 minutes
• MPAA rating : PG-13
• MPAA explanation : violence and disturbing content, alcohol abuse, some sexuality, language and thematic material
• Last updated : October 14, 2022

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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A writer by both passion and profession: Tiffany Taylor is a mother of three with a lifelong interest in all things strange or mysterious. Her love for the written word blossomed from her love of horror at a young age because scary stories played an integral role in her childhood. Today, when she isn’t reading, writing, or watching scary movies, Tiffany enjoys cooking, stargazing, and listening to music.

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Film Review – Blumhouse’s Truth or Dare (2018)

Now that Blumhouse routinely pumps out low-budget films that score big at the box office , they have the gall to stick their name in front of a movie as part of the official title.  So, the latest horror film  Truth or Dare  is technically  Blumhouse’s Truth or Dare .

Well, there’s actually another reason for the title other than pure egotism, and we’ll discuss that alongside the reasons why you probably shouldn’t pay to see this movie.

The following review will be spoiler free.

Directed By:  Jeff Wadlow

Written By:  Jillian Jacobs, Michael Reisz, Christopher Roach, and Jeff Wadlow

Starring:  Lucy Hale, Tyler Posey, Violett Beane, Hayden Szeto , Landon Liboiron, Sophia Ali, and Nolan Gerard Funk

A group of college students led by Olivia (Hale) head down to Mexico for their last spring break before they all finish school.  After they arrive, Olivia meets a guy named Carter (Landon Liboiron) that gets her and the rest of the gang to play a seemingly harmless game of truth or dare — in abandoned, decrepit church in the middle of nowhere that totally isn’t haunted.

When it comes to Carter’s turn in the game, he reveals that the game is real, and it will continue to haunt every member involved.  As the group quickly begins to figure out for themselves, they must complete the dare or be completely truthful.  Otherwise, they’ll quickly meet their demise.

Everyone knows the game “truth or dare.”  If you were ever thirteen years old, odds are you had to play it and were dared to kiss that one girl or boy you had a crush on.  The film industry knows how popular that game is too, or at least they understand the branding potential of naming a film such a recognizable concept in regular culture.

By now, we all know how Blumhouse Productions operates.  They make films that have high-concept plots and create solid marketing material around them.  Obviously, they would like to make great films every single time, but they never worry if a film appears schlocky or even terrible.  All that matters is money, and Jason Blum and the rest of Blumhouse have a TON of it since they stick to producing such low-budget films .  Knowing that “truth or dare” has been the title of many other films, Jason Blum simply slapped the Blumhouse name in front of it to make its use still possible.  Credit is definitely due to Blum and the rest of his staff.  They just know how to get people to see their movies on opening weekend.

image via CinemaBlend

When a Possible Scare Goes Wrong…Horribly Wrong

Most people who are aware of  Truth or Dare  know of it because of the odd Snapchat-like effect that is used on people who are infected by the game. It probably worked as a marketing ploy because it was so oddly distinct and memorable that people couldn’t help but remember it.  But, within the context of the film, it’s pretty damn hilarious.  At face value, the derpy CGI effect is a silly image, not a scary one.  In fact, it actually ruins any momentum that a scene might have had as it awkwardly contorts people’s faces into something out of a cartoon.

As the technique is woven into a scene, the editing is often abrupt and quick, causing laughter to become the first — and most understandable — reaction.   Truth or Dare  never approaches scary, it’s just plain goofy .  In that sense, it’s better to approach the film as a comedy rather than a horror or thriller.  You’re much more likely to find enjoyment out of it that way.

I mean, just look at Lucy Hale’s face:

image via YouTube

Prepare your memes !

Truth or Dare  Never Comes Close to Scary

Rumors are that director Jeff Wadlow took on this project as a dare, creating a story off of just the title of the movie.  When you add that backstory to the melting pot of reasons why  Truth or Dare  doesn’t work in the way it was intended, it makes a whole mess of sense in explaining the final product.

Truth or Dare  feels and looks like a slapped together film in almost every respect.  It’s as if Wadlow and his writing partners had to meet a way-too-optimistic deadline set by the studio.  While this idea is most prevalent in the characters themselves (more on that below), the scares aren’t, well, scary.  Scenes of possible tension and fright are cobbled together without rhyme or reason, capturing what’s in the frame without a sense of style .  When you think about it, creating fear in an audience of people mostly comes about from proper style and staging, and  Truth or Dare  offers nothing in that regard.  Each moment is captured with a flat, uninteresting look that forces the film to resort to loud bangs and fake-out jump scares to startle the audience into thinking that something terrifying is happening.

In other words,  Blumhouse’s Truth or Dare  does nothing to distract from its use of a warped Snapchat filter which, again, is downright hilarious.  Everything comes back to the use of that hysterical, ridiculous smile that never ceases being funny.

image via Slash Film

Bad Decisions Both In Front of and Behind the Camera

However, almost everything could be forgiven if Truth or Dare  created characters that weren’t awful.

First of all — this message goes out to everyone in Hollywood — can we stop casting actors as college students that are pushing 30?  Lucy Hale is lovely, but she’s 28 years old.  Hell, Hayden Szeto is 32!

It’s a completely different discussion if the writer wrote a role specifically for a certain actor.  But these characters are just so bland that anyone would have performed decently in their place.   Not to mention that each character is just the  worst.   In  Truth or Dare , a character has one of two options.  1) they can be so bland that they offer nothing but wasted space.  Or 2) they’re so terrible that you hope they lose the deadly game so that the movie ends a few minutes faster than expected.  They’re all  mean , and you want them to fail — or to get overcome by that silly stretched-face effect once again.

And if you thought there was a payoff to it all — there isn’t one.  Instead,  Truth or Dare  finishes with an ending that is selfish, cruel, and lazy .

image via KUTV

Final Thoughts

Blumhouse’s Truth or Dare  is a folly of a film, failing to create a single scare and often becoming quite funny thanks to a poorly conceived idea for how the game of truth or dare manifests.

But, its worst decisions are in the creation of the characters.  Each one is particularly mean or awful in their own distinct way — which I guess could be a compliment from an ironic point of view.

Still, this movie is going to succeed financially on its $3.5 million budget, so maybe the joke is on everyone who helps  Truth or Dare  turn a profit.

image via Bloody Disgusting

Thanks for reading! What are your thoughts on Blumhouse’s Truth or Dare? Comment down below!

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A current young professional in the Richmond, Virginia area, Nick founded MovieBabble in October of 2016 when he was a bored college student with nothing else to do. (And he kicks himself every day that his story isn't better.) Nick is also a member of the Online Film Critics Society, the Internet Film Critics Society and the Washington, D.C. Area Film Critics Association. You can follow him on Twitter @nkush42

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[…] TV which is a 24/7 live stream of content — maybe it would be neat if they could premiere a low tier Blumhouse film or a watch along with the director or something to make that aspect of the service more […]

[…] Hereditary, The Witch or Midsommar). It also isn’t a true popcorn horror film like Halloween, Truth or Dare or even something like Hell Fest. It occupies this interesting space where both of those types of […]

I agree, 30 somethings should stop playing college kids. Neve Campbell in scream 2 (one of my favorite horror franchises) pulled it off at 24, but still, in the first movie she was in high school at in real life she was 23 lol. Evil Dead, bruce campbell was 23 in real life playing a college guy, believable, much more believable than a 30 something in college.

Absolutely! Give some up and coming college-aged actor a chance to prove himself/herself

…this movie looked awful to me on the trailer. I was really surprised to see that NetFlix (USA) lists horror films under comedy now, and comedy under romance (Rom-Coms, I guess). If horror is the new comedy, then I recommend Amy Schumer in “Snatch.” Puke your guts out (don’t get me wrong, it is a great brain-dead movie to play over and over on a 14-hour flight VOD)….my favorite newish horror ones are the really slow and cinema-graphic ones, like “It Comes at Night,” and “Blackcoat’s Daughter,” but “The Ritual,” wasn’t all that great. Now, “The Babysitter,” on the other hand, well, let’s just say that Bella Thorne acts as badly as Paris Hilton did in “Wax Museum,” from way back when.

I HATE Snatched! Lol it was one of my least favorite movies of 2017!

Oh come on, if anyone can poke fun at millennial stuff, only Schumer can. She really is awful in it; it’s like watching a classic B-Movie. :)

Lol I really enjoy Schumer in her other work but I just couldn’t do it with Snatched…even in an ironic sense lol

I saw this on the weekend, and I couldn’t agree more. This film was really underwhelming, not at all scary and all of the reasonable bits were in the trailer anyway. Fortunately I have a membership at the cinema so didn’t have to pay to see it.

I’m in the same boat! Hooray for MoviePass!

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'Truth Or Dare' Review: One Of Blumhouse's Worst Horror Movies

Jeff Wadlow 's Truth Or Dare is an inconsequential brand of horror likened to Stiles White's Ouija or more recently John R. Leonetti's Wish Upon . Actors such as heartthrob Tyler Posey and pretty little liar Lucy Hale entice younger audiences who may find a scream or two in the shallow slog, but hardcore hellhounds will sniff out confliction from scene one. Aggro college-bred stereotypes, telegraphed jumps from miles away, nonsense plot connectivity – hope you like your demon possessions overshadowed by hormonally volatile love triangles and "white girl problems." And if you don't? I dare you to reach the credits of this generic schoolyard excuse for genre furtherment.

We open on the altruistic Olivia (Lucy Hale) being convinced to skip her Habitat For Humanity spring break plans in favor of BFF Markie's (Violett Beane) debaucherous south-of-the-border trip. Cut to their last night in Mexico – accompanied by four friends/significant others – and Olivia is convinced by scruffy stranger Carter (Landon Liboiron) to end the night at a "not far from here" hangout. The party follows, Carter suggests a game of "Truth or Dare" and his intentions are revealed. He only lured "pushover" Olivia to the abandoned mission chapel to sacrifice more players to an already dangerous game. Crazy, right? That's what everyone thinks until the first death is reported back home.

Much like Wadlow's own Cry Wolf , much like Final Destination  – much like any  "rules to be broken" horror movie –  Truth Or Dare attempts to craft dark mythologies out of something innocent. In this game, players must choose either "truth" or "dare" when asked in turn. Failure to participate or complete what's asked results in death. Sounds disastrously fun? Oh yeah, an onslaught of secrets being revealed like how Markie can't stop cheating on hunk boyfriend Lucas (Tyler Posey) provides way more entertainment than elaborate daredevil stunts. Remember, PG-13 rating.

So, we know how the game works, but mythos and driving forces are harder to decipher than ancient Mayan hieroglyphics. You must understand, demons are able to possess ideas  in addition to locations and bodies (as per the script's legend). This means there's a malicious force hunting Olivia's dumbfounded posse that can whisper "Truth or Dare" as long as text is visible (phones, graffiti walls) or faces in view. Players can only be asked in turn order, but that's complicated when a former player is introduced later into playtime who inexplicably had his go skipped every time? I'm not going to burden you with spoilers or leaps in logic, just understand that coincidental plot workings only service the scene at hand, crossing lines like a failed game of Cat's Cradle.

Characters are...largely underdeveloped. Robotic genre prototypes whose empathy and situational awareness is stranded on a planet far, far away. Deaths are witnessed without nary an eye-batting, but introduce romantic drama into the mix and waterworks flow like Niagra. I mean, Olivia's clan is cursed in Mexico but it almost  never dawns on anyone that their solution probably exists where Carter literally says he was forced to lead them? Granted, they just "Google" and "Facebook" their way to revelations because search-bar tasking "Mexico Truth Or Dare" would obviously lead them to the film's proverbial elder wisdom bequeather who's located three hours away in Tijuana.

Wadlow's mismanagement of tone is another nail in Truth Or Dare 's coffin, jumping from young-adult melodrama to digitized Joker's grin "terror" without warning (ugh, those faces). One minute Olivia and Markie are exhaling fear, the next Tyson (Nolan Gerard Funk) drops another epically bro-mendous a**hole comment, seconds later someone might die, cut to Markie quipping her renegade don't-give-a-shit hardass facade, insert unsexy smash-cut sex scene – there's no constant throughline for atmosphere to build. Matthew Margeson's score dances with lighthearted glee more than morose key tickling, even. It's like production forgot they were making a horror movie at times, the film's highest-profile victim not a character at all.

Frustration mounts with every fleeting second especially because Wadlow's impressed me before. Even some work in Truth Or Dare harkens back to his visual prowess in Kick-Ass 2 , be it Penelope's (Sophia Ali) rooftop liquor-chug walk or Ronnie's (Sam Lerner) barroom embarrassment. Then you remember Ronnie and Tyson's absolutely atrocious character designs and it's back to reality – emotional beats grant minimal reaction, dialogue that of frat-boy word vomit. And those smirks? It's hard to take an evil spirit seriously when it constantly looks hopped up on laughing gas. Wadlow's ADR inclusion of "...looks like a bad SnapChat filter..." is no doubt a post-production add based on trailer reactions (a real overdub, I swear it).

Quite frankly, Truth Or Dare may be one of Blumhouse's worst films to date – easily bottom ten, and I stopped counting how many I've seen after hitting "30." I'd balk at describing Wadlow's juvenile proceedings as "horror," sans one well-timed jump scare while rummaging for hospital snacks. Otherwise scenes come together so predictably and off-kilter, unenthusiastic despite tackling themes of LGBT representation, suicide and selflessness. Intro-to-horror audiences may remain ambivalent to misguided thrills, but those expecting even moderate levels of coherence and execution are going to be severely disappointed. Like, plummeting into a crater and never hitting bottom until the credits roll.

/Film Rating: 3 out of 10

Truth or Dare (I) (2018)

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10 Worst Horror Movie Friends

Henry cavill's $60 million action movie is better than him playing james bond, lord of the rings animated movie first look images: massive armies assemble outside 2 iconic middle-earth locations.

• Truth or Dare director Jeff Wadlow explained how he once had a good idea for a meta Truth or Dare sequel.
• Blumhouse canceled Truth or Dare 2 due to COVID-19 regulations and cost implications.
• Despite a 15% Rotten Tomatoes rating, Truth or Dare was successful, but Blumhouse has since focused on other projects.

Truth or Dare director Jeff Wadlow explains why Blumhouse cancelled the proposed sequel for the film. Released in 2018, the horror film Truth or Dare focused on a group of friends whose innocent game of “truth or dare” turns deadly when someone begins to punish those who refuse to play. Truth or Dare was relatively successful for Blumhouse, and whisperings of Truth or Dare 2 were ripe after its release.

Now, Wadlow explains why Blumhouse cancelled Truth or Dare 2 . Speaking with Variety , Wadlow revealed that his initial plans for Truth or Dare 2 involved a meta story where the events of Truth or Dare happen to the actors whilst on vacation together. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jason Blum gave Wadlow and the cast the opportunity to “ move into the hotel on the Universal lot .” The studio later realized that there were too many “ cost implications of basically not letting people leave ” due to COVID regulations, so the project was scrapped. Check out the full quote from Wadlow below:

I got a call from Jason [Blum]. ‘Would you be willing to move into the hotel on the Universal lot with all the actors from ‘Truth or Dare’ and the crew, and quarantine with everyone and make a movie during the height of the pandemic?’ I was in, and we started prepping it. There’s this one cabin on the Universal lot where they’ve shot a million things — we were going to take over that cabin. But I think they started to realize that the health and safety risks involved at that moment, and also the cost implications of basically not letting people leave, would mean everyone was on overtime for the entire shoot, and they pulled the plug on it.

What Blumhouse Has Been Up To Instead of Truth or Dare 2

Truth or Dare grossed an impressive $95.3 million worldwide on just an estimated $3.5 million budget. This success came despite Truth or Dare ’s largely negative reviews. Truth or Dare 2 would likely have done well, so it's a shame that Wadlow and his team did not get to live out this concept.

Truth or Dare received a 15% on Rotten Tomatoes.

But Blumhouse has not been slacking in the time since the release of Truth or Dare . Since 2018, Blumhouse has released several notable films, including the reimagining of The Invisible Man and the reboot of the Halloween Franchise . In 2022, the horror studio saw box office success and a viral sensation created in M3GAN . A sequel to M3GAN , titled M3GAN 2.0, was announced shortly after the first film's release and is expected to be released in 2025.

With friends like these horror movie characters, there's really no need to fear anything else.

This year, Blumhouse has already released one project with the horror movie Night Swim . Upcoming, the studio has a couple of major titles, including Imaginary , Speak No Evil , and Wolf Man . Truth or Dare 2 might have been shut down, but Blumhouse has not been even in the least bit suffering in its absence, for they remain one of the most active horror production companies out there.

Source: Variety

Truth or Dare

Truth or Dare is a horror-thriller film that follows a group of college friends who find themselves trapped in a deadly rendition of a teenage classic party game. While on vacation in Mexico, the friends meet a man who takes them to an abandoned church to continue their alcohol-fueled evening. However, when he suggests a game of Truth or Dare, he reveals that he had to bring new people into the game to survive - and that if they don't follow the rules, an unseen force will take their lives.

• Truth or Dare (2018)
• Horror Movies

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Truth or Dare Reviews

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What starts as a lighthearted game of Truth or Dare at a celebration for a friend's new business quickly turns sinister and survival becomes the ultimate challenge.

Truth Or Dare Review: Not The Worst Horror Movie Ever Made

And that’s the best compliment I can think of.

A few weeks ago, A Quiet Place told me that I should every now and again, give the horror genre a chance; That it’s not all fart boxes and dog poop; That there are gems to be found even in a genre that I simply do not like. Truth or Dare is a stern reminder of exactly why I contemplate crashing my car every time I’m on my way to a horror movie. Guys, this movie stinks.

Truth or Dare is another horror movie birthed by Blumhouse, a production company which for the most part does no wrong. Every year Blumhouse releases a string of horror movies, some of which are great — Split, Get Out — some of which are decent — The Belko Experiment, The Purge — and some of it involve teenagers and their angst — Happy Death Day .

Despite being a horror movie revolving around a silly game, the concept itself isn’t the issue. In typical Blumhouse fashion, the premise is pretty cool. We follow a group of college kids.

Introducing…

• Nice girl’s slutty bff
• Nice girl’s biff’s boyfriend who’s kinda into the nice girl
• A douche who’s a douche for the sake of douching out cause douche.
• Douche’s alcoholic girlfriend
• Second, less handsome douche, who’s not really in the gang

Yeap, it’s pretty much every teen angst horror bullshit you’ve seen before. Except, holy shit plot twist, there’s no black guy in their gang whose sole existence is to fill up a quota and then die first. Oh wait, I forgot. The quota is filled by — wait for it — GAY ASIAN DUDE. You can’t get more woke than that. #2018baby

Truth or Dare starts off interesting, as characters are forced to reveal deep dark secrets about themselves and each other, putting their friendship to the test and leaving them to wallow in a pool of shame. Olivia has a crush on her best friend’s boyfriend, but has suppressed her feelings for the longest time. The game dares her to have sex with the guy — will she do it? The alcoholic is forced to walk on the ledge of a roof while drinking an entire bottle of booze.

Watching the trailer, I thought this was going to be a crappier version of the crappy Final Destination franchise. But as I was sitting through the movie, I found myself surprisingly hooked. No, it wasn’t Citizen Kane , but at the very least it seemed like director Jeff Wadlow crafted something genuinely interesting. One where the emotional depths of these characters are explored, tough decisions are made, truths are spilled, true personalities are revealed and in the process, they find themselves.

Oh, wait… no, no.

Silly me. I was too quick to jump the gun. The interesting stuff only happens in the first half or so of the movie. After that, it devolves into testicles, post-Vasectomy. Truth or Dare goes from a fun and light character study to Final Destination (without the gory death sequences) + typical demon nonsense. Do we need to know about the demon? Nope. Do the teenagers need to avoid cops, become investigators and figure out a convoluted method to beat the game? F**k no. This movie works best when its focus is on this group of assholes, uncovering each other’s dirty secrets. Not to mention there’s a whole stupid explanation on why characters can’t keep picking truths.

Truth or Dare also takes itself way too seriously. This movie would’ve benefited from a Riverdale sort of vibe. Riverdale is the most ridiculous show on the planet right now, where teenagers get entangled in decade-long family rivalries revolving MAPLE SYRUP, young girls are held hostage by NUNS and a sexy cheerleader is also a MOBSTER. It makes zero sense, but it works because it knows what it is and hams everything up. The teen angst is dialed to eleven and characters walk down staircases in slow motion, while catchy pop music plays in the background. It’s fun and it has a lot of heart. Truth or Dare should’ve been that. But it plays itself too seriously while the most nonsensical things are happening.  

I guess Truth or Dare isn’t the worst horror movie I’ve seen. But that’s mostly because the first 30 minutes of the movie is actually pretty intriguing, also because there are very attractive human beings in this movie and sometimes they PG-13 makeout. In other words, I don’t care and don’t waste your money. Go watch A Quiet Place again.

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Truth or Dare

Truth or dare movie review.

Written by Joel Harley

Directed by Jessica Cameron Written by Jessica Cameron and Jonathan Scott Higgins 2013, 89 minutes, Not Rated Starring: Jessica Cameron as Jennifer Collins Ryan Kiser as Derik B. Smith Heather Dorff as Michelle Lucas Devanny Pinn as Courtney Austin

Filming their deadly truth or dare based stunts and posting them online, a band of pranksters calling themselves the Truth or Dare-Devils find fame after one of their games goes viral. Setting up to create their next big hit, the six kids' party is pooped when a crazed fan rolls up wanting to play. Unfortunately, demented Derik is to Truth or Dare as Dirty Sanchez is to Jackass ... on a whole other level. A completely unnecessary level populated entirely by buffoons who don't know when enough is enough, that is.

Being a fan of horror and user of social media over the past year, it's become almost impossible to have not noticed Truth or Dare. Written and directed by scream queen Jessica Cameron, this low-budget slice of torture-themed horror promised to take the world of indie cinema by storm. After a year of hype and self-promotion on the filmmakers' part, I was eager to finally see it. Could it ever live up to the weight of expectation? Dare I say it? To tell the truth, no, it doesn't.

It starts out loud and over-edited, and, although it settles down, that sense of artifice remains. Although they give it their all, none of the actors are quite good enough to sell their characters, while Ryan Kiser's villain is an annoying, hyperactive fool lacking subtlety, dimension or grace. Thankfully, the action of the main event is just gruesome and interesting enough to save the rest of the film. As the Truth or Dare-Devils sit, forced to visit various grisly atrocities upon one another, we can forgive the amateurish acting and slightly predictable twists. 2012's Would You Rather did it better (it did have Jeffrey Combs in it) but it's still better than the British Truth or Dare or the even worse Truth-or-Dare-on-a-plane Panic Button. Stories of outrage, fainting and vomiting surround its final-quarter action (sick bags were even handed out as part of its promotion) but there's little here that hardened horror fans won't have seen before. It's not as offensive, edgy or brutal as it thinks it is (and would anyone ever choose “dare” moments after watching a friend chew broken glass?) but one can't help but admire the movie for its gallons of fake blood and very practical effects.

Premièring in the UK at Frightfest, it should play a lot better to a large festival audience than it did to me, sitting on my tod trying to figure out what the big deal was. It may not have been to my taste, but there will be plenty who'll get a kick from its brand of cheap thrills, sleazy shocks and genuine nastiness. There's no denying that the smart, savvy Cameron has a passion and talent for the genre, and regardless of whether I enjoyed her film or not (I didn't, in case you hadn't guessed) she's certainly marked herself as one to watch in future... if you dare.

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Film review: truth or double dare (todd) (2018).

Adrian Halen 11/18/2018 Film Reviews

The graduating class of 2006 gets together for their 10 yr reunion party. But suddenly, classmates start dying, and its all centered around a game of truth or dare.

2018 definitely appears to be the year designated for the Truth or Dare named horror films to arise, however seeing that we review quite alot of films at HNN, I can tell you that “that” particular title (Truth or Dare) has been re-used one to many times over the last few years. (which I’m predicting also presents more confusion than needed. (note: This release is “ Truth or Double Dare “! for the record)

I tend to lean towards the SAW films as a influencer on these which more of less takes the same approach of “do this or something will happen to you” premise. Even without the gadgets, the idea of making people do things per a recorded invader is the quite the basis of many modern horror films.

Our latest inclusion ups the game with the title of “Truth or Double Dare” using the foolishness of younger people to indulge in game play that requires a personal reveal of some sort or a Dare (bordering on silly, controversial or cringe worthy).

In this latest entry, director Shaquita Smith leads the team thru quite a bit of character building designed to acquaint the viewers with the personalities and backgrounds that lead our characters to a future reunion of truth of dare. Tensions arise as former love interests either move on or are still hanging on to some former feelings which helps to elevate the tension between characters.

Stepping back, much of the film sets its footing into these earlier days of school (year 2006) where dating, relationships, friendships, and grudges are formed setting the tone and persona of each individual. Actress Maia Kavchak as Egypt is clearly set as a focal character who’s primary position appears to be rooted in being the tease antagonist one of the bunch.

Though with any horror driven film, there is a set turning point that leads to chaos. A quick flash into some torture scenes in the film’s beginning set the tone for future mayhem to unfold. It’s not until the half way point in our film that we really get into the horror parts of this movie . (note: I’m not really sure if those torture scenes actually match up to the rest of the film….just saying) A 10 year anniversary sets the date for a gathering of old friends AND…a nice game of truth or dare.

Now prior to this, a Scream-like masked figure begins to kill off a few extras laying the groundwork for what’s to come. While I’m not at liberty to reveal key spoilers, I will say that the Scream influence here is more than just a primary notion.

In retrospect, while comfortably suited with a formula driven appeal, Truth or Double Dare still manages to lay out some professional performances. This was most likely due to the focus on giving their actors some breathing room allowing for the characters to interact and grow more accustomed to their roles and how their directives play out.

Is there a bit of overacting here? Yes, I can’t let the film off the hook on that one that probably follows the direction of …”ok in this scene, you need to up your intensity”. In all Truth or Double Dare is at its core a slasher film. I would suggest cutting the 40 minute lead-in shorter to allow for more background killing incidents to keep viewers reminded that this IS a horror film and not a drama.

In research, “Truth of Double Dare” appears to be a first horror outing for director Shaquita Smith, which means there is much that can learned from this release passing onto future projects in this genre. The movie actually begins with a bigger bang (in first few minutes) than it resolves out to which is a recommended takeaway.

I also will confess that slasher movies are not my favorite form of horror film, however Truth or Double Dare still keeps things close to a solid cross between 80’s and modern horror pieces by incorporating some clever misdirection and tension.

Tags Austin Chunn Benny Demus Caleb J. Spivak Gina Hiraizumi Leslie Black Maia Kavchak Shaquita Smith Truth or Dare Truth or Double Dare

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The 25 Best Movies Like 'Truth or Dare', Ranked By Fans

Looking for movies like Truth or Dare that will keep you on the edge of your seat with heart-pounding thrills and unexpected twists? Look no further! These films were chosen because they feature similar themes and tones to Truth or Dare , offering a mix of supernatural horror, psychological suspense, and sinister surprises that will leave you wanting more. The movies on this list have been compiled using votes from Rankers like you, ensuring a collection of top-rated films that are sure to satisfy your craving for suspenseful entertainment.

If you enjoyed the tension and supernatural elements of Truth or Dare , you'll love diving into a world of malevolent forces and twisted games in these captivating films. From the chilling encounters with the supernatural in It Follows to the mind-bending psychological twists of The Perfection , each movie offers a unique take on the horror genre that will keep you guessing until the very end. With convenient “Where to Watch” buttons below each film for streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Apple TV+, you can easily access these thrilling movies from the comfort of your own home.

Prepare to be captivated by the eerie atmospheres, shocking plot twists, and unforgettable characters that populate these films, each offering a fresh and unique perspective on the horror genre. Whether you're in the mood for a supernatural mystery, a psychological thriller, or a chilling tale of suspense, these movies have something for every horror enthusiast. Rankers have voted up their favorite items on the list to ensure the best recommendations rise to the top, giving you the opportunity to discover new and exciting films that will keep you up at night. So grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready to experience a thrilling cinematic journey into the world of movies like Truth or Dare.

Drag Me to Hell

In Drag Me to Hell , a young woman becomes cursed by a malicious old woman after denying her a loan extension, leading to a series of horrifying supernatural events that threaten her soul. The film blends horror and dark comedy as the protagonist desperately seeks a way to lift the curse and avoid damnation, delving into themes of guilt, revenge, and the consequences of moral choices. With a talented cast delivering dynamic performances, Drag Me to Hell offers a thrilling and eerie ride through the world of curses and the supernatural.

Similar to Truth or Dare , Drag Me to Hell follows a character who has been hexed by a vengeful force, plunging them into a nightmarish struggle to break free from the curse and escape a grim fate. The relentless and malevolent nature of the curse adds a sense of dread and urgency to the narrative, as the protagonist faces escalating horrors that test their will and morality. The film's dark humor and grotesque imagery create a chilling and entertaining exploration of the consequences of invoking supernatural forces.

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Insidious: Chapter 3

Insidious: Chapter 3 follows a girl who becomes the target of a malevolent entity after her attempts to contact her deceased mother through a medium inadvertently invite dark spirits into her life. The supernatural horror film explores themes of grief, loss, and the thin veil between the living and the dead as the characters struggle to protect themselves from malevolent forces at play. With a talented cast and eerie visuals, Insidious: Chapter 3 delivers chilling scares and a descent into the supernatural realm.

In a similar vein to Truth or Dare , Insidious: Chapter 3 depicts characters facing off against malevolent entities that threaten to consume them, plunging them into a nightmarish battle for survival and sanity. The relentless andyielding nature of the supernatural forces ramp up the tension and terror, as the characters navigate a world where the line between the living and the dead blurs. The haunting and unsettling presence of the malevolent entities in Insidious: Chapter 3 mirrors the insidious and menacing threat in Truth or Dare .

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The Last Exorcism

In The Last Exorcism , a disillusioned preacher allows a film crew to document his final exorcism, only to encounter a possessed young girl and face a terrifying showdown with demonic forces. The found-footage horror film delves into themes of faith, skepticism, and the nature of evil as the characters grapple with supernatural phenomena and the boundaries between reality and belief. With a standout performance by Ashley Bell as the possessed girl, The Last Exorcism offers a chilling and suspenseful exploration of exorcism and demonic possession.

Similar to Truth or Dare , The Last Exorcism features a group of individuals who are forced to confront a malevolent and powerful force that challenges their beliefs and puts their lives at stake, leading to a showdown of faith and fear. The insidious and relentless nature of the demonic presence adds a sense of dread and urgency to the narrative, as the characters struggle to combat the evil that threatens to consume them. The Last Exorcism 's exploration of supernatural forces and the battle between good and evil creates a chilling and suspenseful experience that keeps viewers on edge.

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A Nightmare on Elm Street

In A Nightmare on Elm Street , a group of teenagers are terrorized in their dreams by Freddy Krueger, a malevolent spirit seeking revenge for his death at the hands of their parents, leading to a battle between reality and the nightmare world. The horror classic combines supernatural elements with psychological terror as the characters struggle to stay awake and outwit the nightmarish entity haunting them. With iconic performances by Robert Englund as Freddy Krueger and a young Johnny Depp , A Nightmare on Elm Street explores themes of guilt, trauma, and the blurring of dreams and reality.

Similar to Truth or Dare , A Nightmare on Elm Street features malevolent forces preying on the characters' fears and vulnerabilities, creating a nightmarish scenario where they must confront their darkest secrets to survive. The dreamlike and surreal quality of the film amplifies the psychological horror and the characters' desperate fight against an unseen and merciless entity. The haunting and relentless nature of Freddy Krueger's presence in A Nightmare on Elm Street mirrors the sinister and inescapable threat in Truth or Dare .

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Ouija follows a group of friends who decide to play with a mysterious Ouija board, only to find themselves facing a series of inexplicable and terrifying events as they delve into the world of spirits and the unknown. As the friends struggle to solve the mystery behind the Ouija board, they uncover dark secrets that threaten to consume them, leading to a chilling and suspenseful climax. The film features a talented ensemble cast who deliver powerful performances, creating an atmosphere of fear and tension that grips the audience from start to finish.

In a similar vein to Truth or Dare , Ouija portrays a seemingly harmless game that quickly escalates into a deadly and horrifying ordeal for the characters involved. The stakes are raised with each passing moment, as the friends must confront their fears and face the consequences of their actions in a pulse-pounding race against time. The thrilling and haunting experience depicted in Ouija makes it a must-watch for fans of supernatural horror.

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Smile is a horror-mystery-thriller film that follows Dr. Rose Cotter, played by Sosie Bacon, who begins to experience unexplained frightening occurrences after witnessing a traumatic incident involving a patient. Directed and written by Parker Finn, the movie explores themes of post-traumatic stress disorder, paranoia, curses, and mental illness, delving into the sinister forces at play within the hospital setting.

Similar to Truth or Dare , Smile revolves around characters facing escalating dangers and paranormal activities triggered by traumatic events, as they struggle to comprehend and confront the malevolent forces haunting them. Both films delve into themes of psychological torment, supernatural encounters, and the consequences of delving into the unknown, crafting narratives that blend horror, mystery, and thriller elements to create suspenseful and chilling atmospheres. Through its exploration of fear, trauma, and the blurred lines between reality and the supernatural, Smile offers a unique and compelling take on psychological horror, mirroring the tense and gripping experiences encountered by the characters in Truth or Dare as they navigate terrifying challenges and unearth disturbing truths.

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Thinner is a supernatural thriller about a man who is cursed by a gypsy after accidentally killing her daughter, causing him to rapidly lose weight despite his efforts to reverse the curse. As he delves into the world of curses and the supernatural to find a solution, the protagonist must navigate treacherous waters of guilt, vengeance, and the consequences of his actions. With a gritty and suspenseful narrative, Thinner offers a compelling and chilling tale of a man fighting against a curse that threatens his very existence.

Echoing the premise of Truth or Dare , Thinner depicts a character cursed and doomed to face the repercussions of their actions, embarking on a perilous journey to break free from the malevolent force that plagues them. The relentless and sinister nature of the curse leaves the protagonist in a desperate race against time to find redemption and salvation before it's too late, adding a sense of impending doom and suspense to the story. Thinner 's exploration of morality and the supernatural curse creates a gripping and intense experience that delves into the darker aspects of human nature.

The Ring is a supernatural horror film about a cursed videotape that causes anyone who watches it to die seven days later, leading a journalist to investigate the truth behind the deadly legend to save herself and her loved ones. The haunting imagery and eerie atmosphere of the film heighten the sense of dread and suspense, with a captivating storyline that delves into themes of urban legends, technology, and the power of fear. The talented cast delivers compelling performances that add depth and emotion to the chilling narrative.

In a manner reminiscent of Truth or Dare , The Ring features characters who are haunted by a deadly curse that threatens their lives and forces them to confront the terrifying consequences of their actions. The looming deadline of seven days adds a sense of urgency and impending doom, as the characters race against time to unravel the mystery and break the curse before it's too late. The supernatural terror and psychological torment in The Ring create a gripping and unsettling experience for fans of supernatural horror.

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Would You Rather

Would You Rather is a dark and twisted thriller about a young woman who agrees to participate in a deadly game of "Would You Rather" in exchange for a chance to win a large sum of money to help her ailing brother. As the game progresses, the stakes are raised with each impossible choice, pushing the participants to their limits and forcing them to make unthinkable decisions. The film features a talented cast of actors who bring depth and complexity to their characters, creating a tense and gripping atmosphere that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Similar to Truth or Dare , Would You Rather explores the consequences of a seemingly harmless game that quickly spirals out of control, leading to devastating and deadly outcomes for the characters involved. The psychological tension and moral dilemmas faced by the participants create a sense of unease and suspense that builds throughout the film, culminating in a shocking and unforgettable conclusion. The gripping and thought-provoking narrative of Would You Rather makes it a powerful and chilling exploration of the darker side of human nature.

In The Vigil , a young man takes on the responsibility of watching over a deceased member of an Orthodox Jewish, only to encounter supernatural forces that test his faith and sanity during a night of terror. The supernatural horror film explores themes of trauma, spiritual warfare, and the nature of evil as the protagonist confronts malevolent entities from the past. With a haunting atmosphere and a standout performance by Dave Davis, The Vigil delivers chilling scares and a descent into the shadows of the unknown.

Similar to Truth or Dare , The Vigil is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep the audience on edge as the protagonist navigates a night of terror and supernatural encounters, facing challenges that blur the line between reality and nightmare. The eerie and unsettling atmosphere of the film adds a layer of suspense and unease, as the characters grapple with the forces that threaten to consume them. The Vigil 's exploration of trauma and the supernatural creates a gripping and suspenseful narrative that twists and surprises until the very end.

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It Follows is a chilling horror film following a young woman who becomes the target of a supernatural entity after a sexual encounter, forcing her to constantly look over her shoulder and evade the relentless being. The film explores themes of fear, paranoia, and the inevitability of death, with a talented cast delivering nuanced performances that intensify the sense of dread. The atmospheric cinematography and suspenseful score enhance the eerie and unsettling tone of the movie.

Similar to Truth or Dare , It Follows presents a terrifying scenario where characters are relentlessly pursued by an unseen entity that poses an existential threat to their lives. The sense of impending doom and the characters' desperate attempts to escape their fate add a layer of suspense and tension to the narrative. The relentless nature of the threat and the sinister atmosphere make It Follows a haunting and riveting horror experience.

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The Grudge is a supernatural horror film centered around a curse that haunts a house and anyone who enters, unleashing malevolent spirits that seek vengeance on the living. The interconnected storylines follow various characters as they face terrifying encounters with vengeful spirits, delving into themes of guilt, trauma, and the cycle of violence. The film features a talented ensemble cast led by standout performances that heighten the sense of terror and unease.

In a similar vein to Truth or Dare , The Grudge depicts characters who are haunted by a malevolent force that poses an existential threat to their well-being, with the supernatural curse lingering over their lives like a dark shadow. The atmosphere of dread and the suspenseful build-up of each encounter with the vengeful spirits create a sense of foreboding and imminent danger. The chilling and haunting presence of the curse in The Grudge mirrors the relentless and ominous nature of the threat in Truth or Dare .

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Escape Room

Escape Room is a high-octane thriller about a group of strangers who are lured into a deadly escape room game where they must solve puzzles and riddles to survive. As the players navigate through a series of rooms filled with deadly traps and challenges, they must work together to uncover the dark secrets behind the game and find a way out before it's too late The film features a diverse cast of characters who bring a sense of urgency and intensity to the gripping narrative.

In a twist reminiscent of Truth or Dare , Escape Room presents an engaging and deadly game that tests the characters' wits and survival instincts in a life-or-death situation. The tension mounts as the players realize the true nature of the game they are trapped in, leading to a heart-stopping race against time to escape and uncover the truth. The adrenaline-fueled excitement and suspense in Escape Room make it a compelling and thrilling watch for fans of psychological thrillers.

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Final Destination

In Final Destination , a group of people narrowly escape a catastrophic accident, only to realize that death is coming for them one by one to correct the balance of fate. The film is a gripping blend of horror and suspense as the characters desperately try to outwit death's design and break free from their inevitable demise. With a talented cast delivering intense performances, Final Destination explores themes of mortality, destiny, and the fragility of life.

Similar to Truth or Dare , Final Destination follows characters who are locked in a deadly struggle against fate itself, fighting to reclaim control over their own destinies and defy the predetermined path of death. The tension mounts as the characters face increasingly elaborate and terrifying scenarios, where each choice could mean the difference between survival and a gruesome end. The relentless pursuit of death and the characters' defiance against their preordained fates create a sense of urgency and dread that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

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In Nocebo , a mystery-thriller-horror film directed by Lorcan Finnegan, a fashion designer named Christine, played by Eva Green, falls ill with a perplexing condition that bewilders her doctors and alienates her husband. As her mysterious illness worsens, a Filipino carer named Diana, portrayed by Chai Fonacier, introduces traditional folk healing methods that uncover a horrifying truth, leading to a revelation of dark secrets and disturbing revelations within the narrative.

Similar to Truth or Dare , Nocebo delves into the realm of suspense and horror, intertwining themes of mystery, psychological suspense, and the unveiling of unsettling truths that challenge the characters' perceptions of reality. Both films explore the consequences of delving into the unknown and facing supernatural forces that manipulate and torment characters, creating tension-filled narratives that blur the lines between reality and nightmare. Through its exploration of fear, illness, and the quest for truth in the face of mysterious occurrences, Nocebo offers a chilling and atmospheric take on psychological horror, mirroring the suspenseful and sinister undertones found in the characters' experiences in Truth or Dare as they confront their darkest fears and encounter terrifying challenges.

In Talk to Me , a horror-thriller film directed by Danny and Michael Philippou, a group of friends unlocks a chilling discovery of how to communicate with spirits through an embalmed hand, leading to a dangerous addiction to the supernatural thrill until one member takes it too far, unleashing terrifying forces. With a cast including Sophie Wilde as Mia, Alexandra Jensen as Jade, and Zoe Terakes as Hayley, the movie delves into themes of addiction, trauma, female friendship, and the consequences of dabbling with the supernatural, wrapped in a narrative of escalating horror and perilous encounters.

Similar to Truth or Dare , Talk to Me crafts a narrative where characters become entangled in dark and supernatural forces due to their curiosity and involvement in a dangerous game or activity, resulting in escalating consequences that test their limits. Both films explore themes of the supernatural, peer pressure, and the dangers of delving into unknown realms, offering suspenseful and chilling narratives that unfold as characters are met with terrifying challenges and face the repercussions of their actions. Through a blend of horror elements, betrayal, and a descent into a realm of darkness, Talk to Me presents a gripping tale of supernatural intrigue and escalating terror that mirrors the chilling consequences faced by the characters in Truth or Dare as they navigate the perilous outcomes of their choices.

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Hereditary is a harrowing psychological horror film about a family haunted by dark secrets and ancestral trauma that manifest in increasingly disturbing and supernatural events. As the family unravels the sinister legacy that binds them, they must confront their own demons and face the terrifying legacy that threatens to consume them. Led by a stellar cast delivering raw and emotionally charged performances, Hereditary delves into themes of grief, inherited trauma, and the destructive power of the past.

In a parallel to Truth or Dare , Hereditary portrays characters who are grappling with their own destinies and struggling against forces beyond their control that seek to manipulate and destroy them. The characters' fight for autonomy and self-determination in the face of overwhelming darkness and malevolence creates a sense of psychological tension and emotional turmoil. The intricate web of family dynamics and supernatural elements in Hereditary weaves a complex and haunting narrative that explores the terrifying depths of the human psyche.

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• # 34 of 125 on The 100+ Grossest Movies Ever

The Wailing

The Wailing is a supernatural horror film about a small town plagued by a mysterious illness and a series of brutal murders linked to the arrival of a stranger with a sinister presence, leading to a chaotic and terrifying battle against demonic forces. The film explores themes of fear, superstition, and the corruption of innocence as the protagonist, a bumbling police officer, faces the unexplainable horrors that grip the town. With a complex narrative and haunting visuals, The Wailing delivers a chilling and atmospheric exploration of the supernatural.

In a similar vein to Truth or Dare , The Wailing is a horror film filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep the characters and the audience on edge as they unravel the mysteries of the ominous presence infecting the town. The escalating sense of dread and chaos heightens the suspense and unpredictability of the narrative, blurring the line between reality and nightmare. The Wailing 's exploration of fear and corruption weaves a tangled web of horror and mystery that unfolds with shocking revelations and unsettling revelations.

• # 313 of 396 on The Best Horror Movies Of All Time
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I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House

I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House is a slow-burn supernatural horror film about a hospice nurse who takes care of a reclusive author in a haunted house, where she begins to uncover dark secrets and encounter ghostly apparitions. The eerie and atmospheric movie explores themes of isolation, mortality, and the passage of time as the protagonist unravels the mysteries of the house and its haunting history. With a dreamlike quality and a minimalist approach to horror, I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House offers a haunting and contemplative experience.

In a parallel to Truth or Dare , I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House features characters who must contend with malevolent forces that lurk within the shadows, haunting and tormenting them with supernatural manifestations and eerie occurrences. The subtle and creeping dread of the film adds a layer of psychological terror as the characters grapple with the unseen forces that threaten their peace and sanity. The ethereal and ghostly presence in I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House mirrors the malevolent and oppressive atmosphere in Truth or Dare , creating a haunting and introspective exploration of the unknown.

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Midsommar is a folk horror film about a group of friends who travel to Sweden for a festival that takes a sinister turn as they become embroiled in the rituals of a pagan cult. The visually stunning and atmospheric movie explores themes of grief, community, and the dark undercurrents of tradition as the characters are drawn deeper into the cult's disturbing practices. With standout performances by Florence Pugh and Jack Reynor, Midsommar offers a haunting and surreal journey into a world of ancient rituals and malevolent forces.

In a similar vein to Truth or Dare , Midsommar showcases a group of individuals who are ensnared in the twisted and enigmatic practices of a powerful and ominous force, plunging them into a nightmarish descent into madness and horror. The ominous and foreboding atmosphere of the cult's rituals adds a sense of foreboding as the characters navigate the malevolent and otherworld elements that threaten their sanity and safety. Midsommar 's exploration of ancient traditions and the sinister underbelly of communal practices creates a chilling and immersive experience that delves into the darkness of human nature.

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• # 146 of 396 on The Best Horror Movies Of All Time

The Box is a psychological thriller based on a short story by Richard Matheson, following a couple who receive a mysterious box that offers them a lucrative financial reward at the cost of a stranger's life, leading to a moral dilemma with far-reaching consequences. The film delves into themes of ethics, temptation, and the price of greed as the characters grapple with the horrifying implications of their choices. Starring Cameron Diaz and James Marsden, The Box offers a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of human nature and moral ambiguity.

Similar to Truth or Dare , The Box is a horror film full of twists and turns that challenge the characters' morals and choices, plunging them into a complex and unsettling moral dilemma that threatens to consume them. The psychological tension and moral quandaries intensify the sense of suspense and unease as the characters confront the consequences of their actions and the dark forces that manipulate them. The Box 's exploration of temptation and sacrifice adds a haunting and thought-provoking layer to the narrative, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats with shocking revelations and moral dilemmas.

• # 201 of 252 on The 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
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The Babadook

The Babadook is a psychological horror film about a mother and son haunted by the sinister presence of the Babadook, a malevolent entity from a mysterious children's book that begins to terrorize their lives. As the mother's mental state deteriorates and the son faces increasing danger, they must confront their fears and trauma to uncover the truth behind the malevolent force haunting them. The Babadook delves into themes of grief, motherhood, and the monsters that lurk within us.

In a parallel to Truth or Dare , The Babadook explores the psychological torment inflicted by a malevolent force that preys on the characters' vulnerabilities and emotional struggles, leading them into a downward spiral of fear and despair. The eerie and oppressive atmosphere created by the Babadook's presence intensifies the sense of dread and unease, as the characters grapple with their inner demons and the external threat haunting them. The psychological and emotional depth of The Babadook makes it a chilling and thought-provoking exploration of darkness within.

• # 101 of 396 on The Best Horror Movies Of All Time
• # 46 of 108 on The Best Intelligent Horror Movies
• # 72 of 167 on The 160+ Scariest Psychological Thrillers

The Girl in the Photographs

The Girl in the Photographs is a horror mystery film about a woman who becomes the target of a sadistic serial killer who stages gruesome photos of his victims, drawing her into a deadly game of cat and mouse. The film explores themes of voyeurism, obsession, and the power of images as the characters confront the twisted and malevolent intentions of the killer. Led by a talented cast including Kal Penn, Claudia Lee, and Katherine Isabelle, The Girl in the Photographs offers a chilling and stylish take on the slasher genre.

In a parallel to Truth or Dare , The Girl in the Photographs presents a group of characters who are pitted against a malevolent and calculating force that seeks to terrorize and manipulate them through twisted games and deadly traps. The sadistic and harrowing nature of the killer's actions creates a sense of unease and suspense, as the characters must outwit the cunning and relentless enemy that threatens their lives. The Girl in the Photographs ' exploration of violence and manipulation through staged imagery adds a psychological and visceral layer to the horror genre.

The Perfection

The Perfection is a psychological thriller about two cello prodigies who become entangled in a web of jealousy, revenge, and manipulation that leads to a twisted and shocking journey of deception and mind games. The film delves into themes of perfectionism, control, and the dark side of ambition as the characters' lives spiral out of control in a dangerous game of deceit. Led by a talented cast including Allison Williams and Logan Browning, The Perfection offers a mind-bending and provocative exploration of power dynamics and psychological warfare.

In a parallel to Truth or Dare , The Perfection is a horror film brimming with unexpected twists and turns that keep viewers guessing as the characters become embroiled in a harrowing game of manipulation and revenge. The psychological tension and intricate plotting create a sense of impending doom and uncertainty, as the characters navigate a twisted and treacherous path of deceit and betrayal. The Perfection 's exploration of control and ambition adds a chilling and suspenseful layer to the narrative, culminating in a shocking and unforgettable journey.

• # 119 of 167 on The 160+ Scariest Psychological Thrillers
• # 3 of 14 on The Best Horror Movies Of The 2010s That Pushed The Boundary Of WTF
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Countdown is a supernatural horror film about a mysterious app that predicts the exact time of a user's death, leading a nurse to uncover a sinister force that preys on those trying to cheat fate before their time runs out. The film explores themes of mortality, technology, and the inevitability of death as the characters race against the clock to evade their deadly destinies. With a blend of horror and dark humor, Countdown delivers a suspenseful and entertaining take on the fear of the unknown.

In a parallel to Truth or Dare , Countdown is a horror film packed with unexpected twists and turns that escalate the stakes for the characters facing a malevolent force that toys with their lives and manipulates their fates. The race against time and the looming inevitability of death create a tense and thrilling atmosphere, as the characters confront their fears and make desperate choices to outwit the sinister entity haunting them. Countdown 's exploration of mortality and fate adds a chilling and suspenseful element to the narrative, keeping viewers enthralled with each shocking revelation and unexpected turn of events.

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Tarot review – disappointment is in the cards with silly supernatural horror

Final Destination inspires yet another throwaway teen schlocker, this time with an increasingly risible astrological bent

A s many of us impatiently wait for the sixth Final Destination film , slated for release next year over a decade since the fifth, here comes yet another limp attempt to recreate that specific, sadistic form of magic. Some curse, some teens, some shock deaths, a formula that’s been trotted out in so-what films like Wish Upon , Countdown and Truth or Dare , shrugs where shocks should be, franchise starters ending after the first round.

Which brings us to Tarot, a film wisely kept from critics until the very last second and one that audiences would be smart to keep themselves from too. It’s not quite as bad as these things can often be but flashes of competence are not enough to distract from a sense of crushing pointlessness, more watery slop served up lukewarm for undemanding Friday night horror fans, who really ought to be demanding so much more.

Like the other Final Destination pretenders, Tarot is designed for a tamer teen crowd, a hard R replaced by a soft PG-13 but like those others, its makers are never quite sure how to master the right tone required. It’s too nasty at times, too silly or too self-serious at others, too idiotic throughout, uneasily combining flashes of gore with splashes of comedy, all peppered with laughably unconvincing cry-on-cue moments of so-sad grief. Loosely based on the 90s YA schlocker Horrorscope but written with such drunk plotting that it could have been based on a Sony exec pointing at a pack of tarot cards, it tells the story of a group of college friends renting out a shadowy mansion who happen upon a padlocked room with a sign saying PRIVATE: KEEP OUT.

Because they’re all stupid, they break in and because they’re all really stupid, they decide to crack open a creepy wooden box of hand-painted tarot cards, insisting the sensible final girl Haley (the British actor Harriet Slater, good enough) reads for them all. She’s got an interest in both tarot and astrology but is nursing a broken heart from both a recent breakup and the death of her mother (!) and puts her carefully textured backstory to the side to give each of her too-large group of friends some maddeningly detailed predictions. Each is then killed off in adjacent circumstances, somehow also tied to their astrological signs (“He’s an earth sign and was found in the dirt!”).

It’s a horror film for the kind of person who’d tell a stranger they’re “such a Libra” after a five-second conversation and maybe those who do invest an awful lot in the meanings behind such waffle would find something scarier here. But there’s not much else for the rest of us, an unscary cycle of poorly executed jump scares, suspense-free death sequences and truly inane plotting. The writer-directors Spenser Cohen and Anna Halberg really have no idea how to fill the gaps between deaths and even at 92 minutes, we’re left with something that feels so much longer.

We’re lumbered with some horrendously dull college student dialogue about how everything is, like, so insane, with Spider-Man’s usually charming Jacob Batalon forced into extremely annoying comedy relief. The characters make dumber than usual decisions and embark on a quest to find someone who might know what’s really going on that literally begins with them Googling the words “tarot” and “death” together. The Irish stage actor Olwen Fouéré takes on the Tony Todd in Final Destination role as someone who has battled this dark force before, something she also did in 2022’s Texas Chainsaw Massacre retcon sequel . As Mrs Exposition, she plays thankless gap-filler which does at least allow for a charmingly batty flashback to 18th-century Hungary, one of the few times we can tell this was based on an actual book.

While the deaths do remind one of the Final Destination movies (“you can’t cheat death” is inelegantly transformed into “you can’t change fate”) they also bring to mind Hellraiser, a wall being removed between one world and the other with a collection of monsters doing the dirty work for a central villain. There are touches of good design – some creepy metallic fingers pushing down a ladder on to unlucky first girlie – but not a lot sticks. Both of those franchises revelled in the giddy jolt of gore and how inventively it can be used but here it’s all sanitised for the sleepover crowd and without, say, smart plot reveals or suspense or characters we root for, we’re left with very little else.

It’s been a scary year so far for the horror genre, a traditionally reliable stream of income for Hollywood, with a string of worrying under-performers, from Imaginary to Immaculate to The First Omen to Abigail. It doesn’t take a reading to predict that Tarot isn’t going to change things.

Tarot is out now in US and UK cinemas

• Horror films

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