Behind You

Behind You is a 2020 horror flick filled with suspense and chills that introduces a well-executed and fresh spin to the classic mirror-demon story. The film takes advantage of its creepy set designs and interesting storyline to draw in horror enthusiasts. Behind You is directed by Andrew Mecham and Matthew Whedon and features a talented cast including Addy Miller, Elizabeth Birkner, and Jan Broberg.

The film follows the story of two young sisters, Olivia (Addy Miller) and Claire (Elizabeth Birkner), who are unexpectedly plunged into the menacing world of the occult and demonic possessions. After the sudden and tragic loss of their parents, the sisters are forced to live with their estranged aunt Beth (Jan Broberg). Beth, a seemingly dour woman, lives alone in a decrepit old house enriched with a dark past and eerie atmosphere. The mansion is filled with unsettling corners and locked rooms, notably an ominous mirror which takes center stage in the narrative.

The film doesn't waste time setting up the sinister atmosphere. Upon arrival, confusion and fear has already begun to seep into the sisters' lives. The eldest, Olivia, is asked to make a sacrifice, she must give up her cheerful youth and assume a mature role for the sake of her younger sister, Claire. This not only sets up a story of supernatural horror but also includes elements of real-life hardships.

In a new and strange environment, the sisters' relationship is tested as they navigate living with their austere aunt, dealing with their loss and the forebodings of the house. Little do they know, they are oblivious to the hidden threats that lies just beyond their reflection.

Their aunt Beth, burdened by the house’s evil history, keeps many secrets locked away, one of them being a mysterious mirror which she keeps securely locked in the basement. The innocent curiosity of the girls soon leads them to stumble upon this forbidden item and unwittingly release an ancient and malevolent demon trapped within the mirror.

What follows is a battle with unseen forces as the powerful demon begins to terrorize the household. The entity, yearning for a corporeal existence, possesses the youngest sister, Claire, making their situation even more dire. In this chilling ambiance filled with supernatural activities, Olivia and Beth are now locked in a desperate struggle to save Claire and get rid of the evil entity.

The film successfully incorporates age-old atmospheric haunt techniques which are sure to give audiences the frights. The child possession theme, while not new, is carried out in such a way in this film that it amplifies the psychological horror for the characters and viewers. The film employs superb use of sound and visuals to enhance the eerie and hair-raising experience.

The standout performances are by Addy Miller and Elizabeth Birkner, who convincingly portray the vulnerability, yet determination of young girls facing a supernatural entity. Their portrayal of the bond between the sisters is heartfelt and stirring. Jan Broberg also delivers a strong performance as the enigmatic and troubled aunt.

Behind You uses the antagonist of its story creatively. The demon, being an entity that can only interact with the world through mirrors, gives a unique perspective on the traditional mirror-demon story we've seen in other horror flicks. This also takes the fear factor of the movie to a higher level, adding unexpected twists to the storyline.

In essence, Behind You is a horror movie that hooks you in with a story that is both engaging and horrifying. It delivers both a visually disturbing ambiance and a fear-laden storyline that matures along with its characters. The film's unique spin on the mirror-demon narrative, coupled with solid performances from its lead actors, make it a must-watch for any horror film lover. It provides just the right amount of spook without resorting to gratuitous scares or gore, successfully keeping audiences on the edge of their seats till its climax. For those who appreciate the allure of haunted houses, menacing mirrors, and the menacing unseen, Behind You offers an enjoyably chilling ride.