Entertainment Blog #301 | Oddity [2024] : A Twisted Tale of Grief and Guilt

The movie Oddity blends with the universal themes of grief and revenge, exploring how unresolved trauma can lead individuals to go down in dark paths. The film’s protagonist, Darcy, symbolizes the struggle many face when dealing with loss, especially when it is sudden and violent. Her exploration for justice against those who wronged her twin sister serves as a perfect reminder of how grief can turn into an obsession, compelling viewers to reminisce on their own reactions to loss and the lengths they might go to seek answers.

"Oddity" is a Psychological horror movie that was released on August 30, 2024, in Ireland and the UK. It was Directed by Damian Mc Carthy and stars Gwilym Lee, Carolyn Bracken, Tadhg Murphy, and Caroline Menton. The film was shot in a converted barn in West Cork, Ireland, the same location as Mc Carthy’s earlier work, “Caveat.” McCarthy’s love for antique stores heavily influenced the film's environment, with many of the props handpicked by the director himself.

The story begins with a Unsettling murder that sets the tone for the entire film. Dani, the wife of psychiatrist Ted Timmis, is brutally killed by a stranger while alone in their newly acquired country house. The murder is seemingly solved when Olin Boole, a former patient of Ted’s, is found guilty of the crime. However, as Olin is later found dead in a psychiatric hospital, the mystery heightens, leaving a trail of unanswered questions and a terrifying atmosphere over the Timmis household.

The plot takes a supernatural turn when Dani’s twin sister, Darcy who is a blind prophet enters the scene. Still grieving her sister’s death, Darcy becomes obsessed on uncovering the truth behind Dani’s murder. It's only been a year since her sister's death and Ted has already moved on from that horrific tragedy and now he is living together with his girlfriend, Yana. That encourage her to step up and find the truth.

One day, Ted goes to Darcy's shop and gives her a piece of the murderer's belongings as per her request. A day after the visit of Ted to Darcy's antique shop, Darcy arrives at Ted’s house with a weird life-sized wooden mannequin, retrieved from her antique shop, and begins her unsettling investigation. As Darcy delves deeper into the mystery, the tension escalates, particularly between her and Ted’s new girlfriend, Yana, who becomes increasingly disturbed by the creepy events in the house.

As night falls, the horror intensifies. Darcy’s supernatural abilities and the sinister presence of the mannequin seem to awaken something sinister in the house. Yana, desperate and terrified, tries to escape, but Darcy’s determined quest for the truth—and her belief that the mannequin holds the key to uncovering it—forces everyone involved to confront the terrifying reality of what happened to Dani. The film builds towards a hole of fear and suspense, leaving the audience on edge as the true nature of the horror stalking in the shadows slowly unravels.

What sets "Oddity" apart from other supernatural thrillers is its unique blend of psychological horror and the supernatural. While many films in the genre rely heavily on jump scares and special effects, "Oddity" focuses on building an unsettling atmosphere and delving deep into the characters' mentalities. The life-sized mannequin, a standout element in the film, is not just a support but a symbol of the grief and guilt that haunts the characters. The film's slow-burn tension and weird visual style draw comparisons to classics like "Creepshow," yet it offers a fresh take on the genre.

Critically, "Oddity" has been well-received, earning a 96% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes with an average rating of 7.6/10. The film’s ability to combine smart storytelling with genuine scares has been praised, with many noting its skillful use of psychological tension to create a lasting impact. Metacritic reflects this sentiment with a score of 78/100, indicating generally favorable reviews. However, some critics have pointed out that the film’s pacing may be too slow for viewers expecting a more traditional horror experience.

With a budget estimated at $1.4 million, Oddity has performed moderately well at the box office, grossing approximately $1.2 million in its opening weekend. While these numbers may not indicate blockbuster status, they reflect a solid turnout for a limited-release horror film. Oddity stands out as a compelling addition to the genre—one that combines emotional depth with supernatural activities. Its exploration of grief and vengeance offers viewers both thrills and food for thought, making it worth a watch for horror enthusiasts looking for something beyond mere scares.