The Doll

The Doll is a gripping and suspenseful horror and thriller movie that was released in 2017. The film, directed by Susannah O'Brien, stars Valeria Lukyanova, Anthony Del Negro, and Isabella Racco. The plot revolves around a chilling narrative that combines elements of psychological dread and physical horror to create an atmosphere of nail-biting terror.

Valeria Lukyanova, the real-life Ukrainian model often dubbed as the "human Barbie" due to her doll-like appearance, plays a pivotal role. Interestingly, her character is the titular “Doll,” a piece inspired perhaps by her strikingly unusual real-life persona. This turns out to be a masterstroke as Lukyanova's uncanny resemblance to a doll brings a very real sense of unease and horror to the narrative, proving to be eerily effective and downright creepy at times.

Anthony Del Negro stars as Chris, a man hired as the new caretaker for a multimillion-dollar residence that has a rather ominous reputation. Known for his roles in other thrillers, Del Negro brings a pleasingly authentic performance to this creepy tale, helping to ground the more fantastic elements in reality. Isabella Racco portrays Chris's girlfriend, Rose, whose curiosity and skepticism about the eerie surroundings of their new dwelling add a thrilling streak to the plot.

As Chris and Rose settle into the house, they soon encounter inexplicable phenomena that cannot be ignored any longer. Of course, they learn about the existence of the eerie Doll, who resides within the house's walls. The veritable nightmare that ensues draws both Chris and Rose into a world neither was prepared for. After initial skepticism and disbelief, they find themselves in an escalating tangle of horror and fear.

The setting is a crucial component of the terror in The Doll. The opulence of the mansion, contrasting starkly with its foreboding reputation and eerie occurrences, augments the suspense throughout the film. The filmmaker uses the setting brilliantly, using every corner of it to maximise the scare factor.

The camera work in The Doll is worth appreciation. Rather than settling for typical shock tactics frequently used in horror films, the director uses slow burns, shadows, and camera angles to perpetuate a growing sense of dread. Throughout the movie, there is a distinct emphasis on building tension and creating an atmosphere of impending doom, rather than relying on instant, cheap scare tactics.

Valeria Lukyanova's performance as the Doll is one of the film's main highlights. Her world-famous, doll-like characteristics create a sinister, almost uncanny feel, making every encounter with her character profoundly unsettling. Toeing the line between the living and the inanimate, her character brings a unique, memorable element to the horror genre.

Fans of psychological horror will likely appreciate the film’s uncanny knack for creating an escalating sense of dread. The storyline successfully manages to exploit ordinary fears, pushing them to their most terrifying extremes. It is a movie that can be appreciated by both lifelong horror enthusiasts and casual viewers looking for a thrilling and entertaining watch, alike.

With The Doll, Susannah O'Brien has crafted an engrossing film experience, building a compelling and horrifying story that stays with viewers long after the credits roll. It might not be a movie for the faint-hearted, but for those who enjoy a good scare, it certainly has a lot to offer.

Overall, The Doll is a chilling blend of psychological and physical horror. The film works on many levels, crafting a suspenseful and solidly engaging narrative adorned with strong performances, especially from Lukyanova, who exhibits an uncanny and sinister aura throughout. It's a film that sticks to the ribs, leaving a lasting impression and a lingering sense of unease. One thing’s for sure, after watching The Doll, you'll never look at dolls the same way again!