"Animal, " a film that promises thrills and chills in the wilderness, falls prey to its own shortcomings, leaving audiences more perplexed than entertained. From its lackluster plot to its uninspired execution, this movie is a forgettable attempt at capturing the essence of the wild.
The narrative, if one can call it that, stumbles through a series of clichés and predictable twists that do little to engage the viewer. The characters are one-dimensional at best, with their motivations and actions feeling forced and contrived. The filmmakers seem to rely on the worn-out formula of placing a group of individuals in the heart of nature, only to have them face unimaginative and underdeveloped challenges.
The screenplay lacks depth, offering dialogue that is cringe-worthy and often unintentionally hilarious. The attempts at creating tension and suspense fall flat, as the poorly written lines and wooden performances fail to evoke any emotional response from the audience. The film’s reliance on cheap jump scares only adds to the overall sense of mediocrity.
The cinematography, touted as a highlight in the promotional material, is a mixed bag. While some shots capture the beauty of the wilderness, the overall visual appeal is marred by inconsistent pacing and lackluster special effects. The CGI animal encounters, in particular, come off as poorly executed and fail to instill any genuine fear or excitement.
The soundtrack, rather than enhancing the viewing experience, seems disconnected from the film’s tone, creating a jarring and disjointed atmosphere. The overuse of generic suspenseful music becomes more of a distraction than a tool to build tension.
In the end, "Animal" is a forgettable addition to the survival horror genre, offering little more than a collection of tired tropes and missed opportunities. Viewers seeking a truly gripping and immersive wilderness experience are better off exploring other cinematic landscapes, as this film fails to deliver on its promises and ultimately leaves its audience longing for a more compelling adventure.