Monster Awakens

Granted, I harbored zero expectations to the movie, given the extremely low budget presentation of the movie's cover. Yet, with it being a movie that I had neither seen, nor actually ever heard about, of course I opted to give the movie the benefit of the doubt and check it out.

Writers David Owen Wright and Scout Wright put together a bland and monotonous script that proved to be nothing more than a background noise movie. I mean, I lost interest in the storyline not even 30 minutes into the ordeal, but I kept the movie going, listening to the awful dialogue whilst keeping half an eye on the screen. So yeah, you're most definitely not in for an evening of Shakespearian theater here, should you opt to sit down and watch "Monster Awakens", not that I was actually expecting such from the movie.

I was not familiar with the cast ensemble in the movie, but I can't claim that the acting was particularly memorable or outstanding. I will say, though, that the acting was fair, taking into consideration the premise of the script and the somewhat faulty and poorly written dialogue that they had to work with.

There is a lot of Wright people involved n the movie, not only writing and directing, but also starring in, which leads me to believe that this was a family home video project.

What kept the movie somewhat afloat was the locations that the movie was shot it, because that snowclad forest definitely worked in favor of the overall enjoyment of the movie.

This is definitely not a movie that I would recommend you to waste 74 minutes on watching "Monster Awakens".

My rating of director Ashley Hays Wright's 2024 movie "Monster Awakens" lands on a two out of ten stars.

Monster Awakens succeeds where so many modern horror films fail by prioritizing mood and character over cheap jump scares. The first hour is a masterclass in slow-burn tension, with cinematography that turns every frame into a haunting painting. When the creature finally appears, the payoff is spectacular - a grotesque, biologically plausible nightmare brought to life through stunning practical effects. My only complaint is that the middle section drags slightly as it builds its mythology, and some supporting characters feel underwritten. But these are minor quibbles in what is otherwise an exceptional horror experience. The sound design alone deserves awards, creating an aural landscape that crawls under your skin. The final twenty minutes will leave you breathless.

If you're a fan of atmospheric horror with strong emotional undertones, Monster Awakens is worth your time. The film follows a young woman lost in the woods during a blizzard while being hunted by a mysterious creature. At the same time, her father searches for her, adding emotional urgency to the story. What really stands out is how well the film uses its environment. The forest and snowstorm are more than just a backdrop-they're active threats that enhance the horror. The monster isn't overused, which keeps the suspense high. The film doesn't rush - it takes its time to build dread, relying on eerie silence, excellent sound design, and raw performances. There's a quiet beauty in its simplicity. While some viewers may want more action or blood, those who appreciate slow-burning, emotionally-driven horror will find something special here.

Monster Awakens is a surprisingly emotional and atmospheric horror film that leans heavily into survival themes and psychological tension. The wintry Maine setting is beautifully bleak, creating a constant feeling of dread and hopelessness. The protagonist's journey through the cold, dark forest while being stalked by an unseen monster is filled with suspense, but what really elevates the story is the emotional thread between her and her father. His desperate search to save her adds urgency and gives the story real heart. The monster itself is handled well-it's terrifying without being overdone or overly explained, keeping it mysterious. The film avoids the typical horror clichés and instead chooses to build fear through isolation, sound design, and pacing. If you're looking for something that offers both fear and feeling, this is a worthwhile watch.

Monster Awakens is a hauntingly quiet, slow-burning horror that excels through atmosphere and emotional depth. The Maine wilderness setting is cold, desolate, and deeply unsettling - almost a character in itself. As the young woman battles the elements and an unseen monster, we're drawn into her fight for survival. The monster is never overused, which makes every shadow feel threatening. What really struck me was the emotional pull from the father's perspective. His desperation and guilt are portrayed so well, it adds a new layer of fear - not just of death, but of loss. The film avoids typical horror tropes and instead opts for a more human, psychological approach to fear. It's not a blockbuster-style thriller, but that's exactly what makes it effective. It's a quiet scream into a frozen void - and it echoes long after the credits roll.