Cobweb is a 2023 horror thriller film directed by Samuel Bodin. Its screenplay is written by Chris Thomas Devlin. The film stars Lizzy Caplan, Woody Norman, Cleopatra Coleman and Antony Starr.
“Cobweb” is one of those horror movies that, while not surprising, manages to captivate from the beginning thanks to its solid direction, skilled actors who know how to interpret the genre, impressive cinematography, and a screenplay that, while not groundbreaking and adhering to genre conventions, successfully intrigues in this “jump-scare” movie that knows how to frighten, intrigue, and maintain suspense without deceiving or surprising the viewer.
It may not be the best horror movie in the world, but it possesses all the elements of a good scary film.
Plot
The narrative centers around Peter, an eight-year-old boy who is troubled by a persistent tapping noise emanating from his bedroom wall. Despite his parents’ dismissive claims that it is a figment of his imagination, Peter firmly believes that they are concealing something from him. Driven by mounting apprehension, he embarks on a quest to uncover the source of the tapping sound, only to unearth a chilling truth that exceeds his worst nightmares.
About the Movie
Everything is well executed, precisely what one expects from a horror movie that knows its game and how to navigate within the confines of the genre.
The pacing and editing are commendable: it effectively sets up the story and the tempo, leaving intelligent questions lingering in the air, gradually turning the characters into mysterious and more terrifying figures, all while not revealing too much of the somewhat predictable plot.
The cinematography is also impressive, with some noteworthy shots and well-crafted sequences.
Mr. Samuel Bodin can be satisfied with having done a good job within the genre, regardless of the box office results. He also knows how to direct his star, young Woody Norman, who carries the dramatic weight of the story with great finesse. Norman is a promising actor who has already received a well-deserved BAFTA award.
Alongside Norman, Lizzy Caplan delivers a perfect performance as the distressed mother, showcasing her acting skills in a horror movie (which typically do not win Academy Awards). Antony Starr plays the challenging and uncomfortable role brilliantly, creating the desired effect.
In terms of technical aspects, this film is notable for its balanced approach, avoiding excessive reliance on brutal effects. It embraces a more classical style of horror rather than being overly sensational, although it does have its moments.
It remains a “jump-scare” movie throughout.
As for the screenplay, it is well-crafted, but it does not break new ground in the horror film genre nor can it boast of having an innovative ending.
Our Opinion
In essence, it is a good horror movie that may not be memorable or leave a lasting impression or induce significant fear, but it is enjoyable within its appropriate duration, which also happens to be quite traditional.
Movie Trailer
The Cast
Woody Norman
Woody Ace Norman is a renowned English child actor recognized for his exceptional performance as Jesse in the critically acclaimed film C’mon C’mon (2021). His outstanding portrayal earned him a prestigious BAFTA nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
Lizzy Caplan
Elizabeth Anne Caplan, an American actress, gained prominence for her roles in various television series and films. She initially made her mark on the cult TV show Freaks and Geeks (1999–2000) and later garnered wider recognition through her performances in Mean Girls (2004) and Cloverfield (2008), the latter of which led to a nomination for the Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actress. Caplan has also appeared in television shows such as Related (2005–2006), The Class (2006–2007), and Party Down (2009–2010).
From 2013 to 2016, Caplan portrayed the character of Virginia E. Johnson in the Showtime series Masters of Sex, earning nominations for a Primetime Emmy, two Satellite Awards, and a Critics’ Choice Award. In 2019, she showcased her talent as Annie Wilkes in the Hulu anthology series Castle Rock. Additionally, Caplan has made notable appearances in films like Hot Tub Time Machine, 127 Hours (both 2010), Save the Date, Bachelorette (both 2012), The Interview (2014), Now You See Me 2, Allied (both 2016), and Extinction (2018).
Antony Starr
Antony Starr, a New Zealand actor, has gained recognition for his notable television roles. He portrayed the characters Jethro and Van West in the series Outrageous Fortune (2005–2010), Lucas Hood in Banshee (2013–2016), and Homelander in The Boys (2019–present).
Starr’s exceptional performance in the 2012 Australian film Wish You Were Here earned him the AACTA Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role, along with other prestigious honors. Additionally, he received a nomination for the New Zealand Film Award for Best Actor for his role in After the Waterfall (2010).
