Infernal

Infernal, a terrifying horror film released in 2015, welcomes the audience into the eerie world of paranormal activities. Directed by Bryan Coyne, audiences are taken on a supernatural jigsaw puzzle where everything unfolds with surreal yet spine-chilling revelations. The convincing performances by Andy Ostroff, Heather Adair, and young Alyssa Koerner are likely to have you jumping out of your seats and keep your heart racing throughout.

In the storyline of Infernal, we follow a pair of newlyweds named Nathan (played by Andy Ostroff) and Sophia (played by Heather Adair) as they venture together into the blissful journey of their married life. A significant milestone occurs when the couple welcome their first child, Imogene, portrayed by Alyssa Koerner. Imogene's beauty and innocence create an illusion of a dreamlike perfect family. Despite the couple's loving relationship and the joy of their daughter's birth, certain events start unfolding that hint at the underlying tumult they are about to face.

The narrative swiftly takes a chilling turn when Imogene's behavior takes a substantial change, turning from a seemingly normal little girl to presenting alarming, unsettling actions. Following this, the couple's utopian family life begins to unwrap, revealing a nightmarish background.

Nathan and Sophia express their concerns to various health professionals who are unable to explain Imogene's change in behavior, dismissing it as normal child development. However, as time goes on, it's clear there is more going on.

The cinematography in Infernal is worth noting, as the film strongly relies on visual storytelling. As the couple's situation slingshots from disturbing actions to dangerous events, the subtle and suspenseful camera-work intensifies the fear. The dark corners, dim lights, and shadows make for a haunting, atmospheric setting that further adds to the heightened fear experienced by the audience.

Contrastingly, there are moments of soft and warm cinematographic settings that briefly allow the audience to connect with the bittersweet side of Nathan and Sophia's life, telling a heartfelt tale of a couple that only wanted to raise their daughter in harmony.

Superb performances by Andy Ostroff, Heather Adair and Alyssa Koerner, coupled with Bryan Coyne's innovative and bold direction bring life to Infernal. It is through their passionate performances that the audience can truly comprehend the psychological torment that Nathan and Sophia face as they cope with their daughter's inexplicable changes. Young Alyssa Koerner deserves special praise for her performance, as she successfully balances the essence of innocence and terror centralized in her character, making it one of the key highlights of this movie.

Infernal, though being essentially horror, holds an underlying theme of familial bonds and the lengths parents would go to protect their child. The film greatly captures the raw emotions, the rising desperation, and the potent fear of the parents who are willing to excel and spend every reserve of their energy in helping their child, despite the terrifying circumstances. It's hard not to empathize with the reality that any parent might go through similar struggles and fears.

With a compelling plot, spine-chilling atmosphere, and brilliant performances, Infernal takes its audience on a horrifying journey into the paranormal, while showcasing the enduring bond of a family, their love, and their sacrifice. While the storyline may seem somewhat familiar, the execution is so particular and distinct that it keeps the audience hooked till the very end.

In the sphere of horror films, Infernal may not seem revolutionarily different, then again, its charm lies in the package of the old school chilling atmosphere it maintains, the engaging character development, the emotionally resonant storyline, and let's not forget, the edge-of-your-seat jump scares sprinkled throughout the narrative.

Infernal is more than just a horror movie with a dash of psychological thriller; it's a walk through the bewildering maze of paranormal incidents. It’s a deeply engaging movie that keeps you guessing till the last minute and isn't afraid to explore the dark side of a seemingly peaceful domestic life. With suspense, thrill, horror, and emotional depth, Infernal makes for an enthralling watch for horror film lovers who appreciate the perfect blend of supernatural fear and human emotion.