First and the foremost factor of this movie that kept me from not winking for a sec atleast is the suspense that builds up right until the end and then performance of that orphan girl Esther - Isabelle Fuhrman. she was at her best throughout! The plot for sure wouldnt be revealed by anyone who had watched Orphan.
I wont admit listing this movie under horror category coz none of the scenes are really horrifying to watch rather it has lot of suspense and the way its been narrated is a treat to watch.its also not appropriate to compare n list out Orphan along with Omen, Sixth Sense, The Exorcist, Exorcism of Emily Rose, etc., kinda movies. outta all these, Orphan stands unique in its plot and the screen play. by the way its David Johnson’s first screen play write up(as far as I know). eventhough the background score is not on the best end still John Ottman, who did Valkyrie, had the experience to make us realize fear. excellent titling work deserves a mention too.
Kate decides to adopt a 9 year old Esther from an Orphanage to follow on the love she had for her third child Jessica (who was born dead). Kate is inferior for Jessica’s death coz of her drinking habbits. Daniel & Max are the other two children of Kate & John. story starts from here and goes on to pile us all with suspense revolving around the family & Esther. Kate (vera farmiga) & Max (arayana engineer)-who becomes the younger sis of Esther, are the other 2 most noted characters in Orphan.
Some of the most likable portions in Orphan for me were,
Esther playing the piano
Esther gets inside a rest room n screams herself
Esther calls daddy after breaking her arm
The costumes Esther wears throughout
Poor Max’s reactions to Esther orders.
That stare Esther gives at her class mate.
The last 20 mins by Esther was remarkable.
To add to the surprise elements of Orphan is Leonardo dicaprio being one of the producers for it! good luck!
Overall according to me, this thriller is worth watching & I cud further go ahead n say its a must watch for this year ;)