Unfriended: Dark Web

Unfriended: Dark Web is a chilling and captivating horror film released in 2018. It is a standalone sequel to the 2014 film Unfriended and it took the original's concept of real-time online interaction suspense to a whole new level. This second installment from the Unfriended series is directed by Stephen Susco, who is known for his work in writing The Grudge film series. This thriller stars a fresh talent pool including Colin Woodell, Stephanie Nogueras, and Betty Gabriel who maneuver their characters through the pitfalls and horrors of the deep web, the portion of the internet not indexed by search engines.

Unfriended: Dark Web begins its plot gracefully by focusing on a simple personal computer. The main protagonist, Matias (Colin Woodell), obtains a second-hand laptop, without knowing that it was specifically used for illegal activities in the dark web. Matias, who is developing a software to communicate better with his deaf girlfriend, Amaya, played by Stephanie Nogueras, finds himself and his friends entangled in a dangerous situation when they came across disturbing videos and ominous folders in the mystery laptop during their online game night. The cybernetic thriller unleashes its plot when the previous sinister owner of the laptop begins stalking the friends online and unveils a deadly game of survival.

A majority of the film's visual storytelling happens through the computer screen and online video calls. This different narrative perspective was also proficiently used in the first Unfriended movie, which adds a unique technological aspect to the horror genre. The suspense is well crafted, amplifying the gritty and dark aspects of the world wide web which are often overlooked.

The cast has done a commendable job in breathing life into the chilling narrative. Colin Woodell, known for his roles in series like The Originals and Deaf U, brilliantly plays the role of Matias, who’s just trying to elevate his troubled relationship with his girlfriend. His portrayal of a common man ensnared in a situation beyond his control is truly convincing.

Stephanie Nogueras as Amaya showcases her talent well. As a deaf character, she communicates through sign language, which adds another layer of authenticity and uniqueness to her character. Her performance in scenes involving high intensity and fear was simply superb, adding existential horror to the surreal cybernetic plot.

Betty Gabriel, known for her roles in Get Out and Purge: Election Year, plays Nari, one of the friends who innocently get tangled in the lethal cybernetic game. Betty deliverers a noteworthy performance, adding to the tension and suspense element of the film.

The online calls shared amongst the friends for their game night serve as beneficial tools to create suspense. It effectively portrays the cyber horror set up where the perpetrator is unseen and their dangers unseen until it’s too late. In addition, the stress on modern technology and its influence permeates the scene, creating an ominous presence throughout.

Unfriended: Dark Web sheds light on the harsh realities of the deep dark corners of the internet, where anonymity sparks danger and life-threatening situations are unseen and can come from anywhere. The film will leave audiences on the edge of their seats, as the suspenseful plot unravels through the seemingly innocent act of a game night, which turns into a fight for survival.

The film is pain-stakingly realistic with its technological aspects, making sure most of the computer interfaces, processes, and actions are as accurate as possible, to maintain the authenticity of the cyber thriller theme.

Unfriended: Dark Web combines the horror genre with the craze for technology in society for a uniquely terrifying experience. Its innovative approach to storytelling, captivating performances, suspenseful plot, and dark themes make it a must-watch for horror enthusiasts. The film not only amazes with its distinctive style but also sparks a conversation about internet safety, dark web and the invisible horrors of technology. The undertone of cyber security issues in the film will leave viewers contemplating their own online safety long after the credits roll.