Review: Watcher (2022)
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Watcher (2022) is a chilling psychological thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Directed by Chloe Okuno, this slow-burn horror film not only explores the fear of being watched but also delves into the paranoia and vulnerability that come with living in a world full of hidden dangers. With a standout performance from Maika Monroe, the film offers a gripping experience that builds tension with every scene, while slowly unraveling a terrifying mystery.

The story follows Julia (Maika Monroe), an American woman who moves to Bucharest with her boyfriend, Francis (Karl Glusman), for a fresh start. While Francis immerses himself in his work, Julia finds herself increasingly isolated and disconnected in a foreign city. As she spends her days at home, she begins to notice a man (Burn Gorman) across the street who appears to be watching her every move. As the tension mounts, Julia becomes consumed by the feeling that someone is following her, but no one believes her. Is she being paranoid, or is someone truly out to get her?

Maika Monroe delivers a powerhouse performance as Julia, perfectly capturing the fragility of a woman trying to hold on to her sanity in an increasingly sinister world. Monroe brings a sense of raw vulnerability to her character, making her paranoia feel tangible and relatable. As Julia’s fear grows, Monroe skillfully portrays her emotional unraveling, creating a character that you can’t help but root for. Her journey from suspicion to terror feels natural and grounded, drawing the audience into her world of unease.

The film’s real strength lies in its atmosphere. Okuno expertly crafts a sense of dread through minimalist storytelling and tight cinematography. The city of Bucharest itself becomes another character in the film, with its cold, imposing architecture and dark, unfamiliar streets amplifying Julia’s sense of isolation. The camera work is often voyeuristic, placing us in the position of the watcher—an unsettling choice that heightens the tension and gives the audience a firsthand experience of Julia’s fear. The film makes the most of its claustrophobic setting, with the majority of the action taking place within Julia’s apartment or in the shadowy streets outside, creating a sense of confinement that is both physically and mentally suffocating.

While the premise of Watcher could easily veer into predictable thriller territory, the film keeps you guessing with its psychological depth and nuanced characters. The slow-burn tension builds gradually, with Okuno taking her time to develop Julia’s growing anxiety before finally delivering the gripping payoff. It’s a film that plays on your fears of being watched, but also on the deeper fear of being alone in a world where no one truly understands you or believes your reality.

The pacing is deliberate, which may frustrate viewers who are expecting more fast-paced action or scares. Instead, Watcher is about creating an atmosphere of constant, creeping dread. The film slowly chips away at Julia’s sense of security, forcing her—and the audience—to question what is real. Is Julia just imagining things? Is there really someone watching her, or is it a figment of her anxious mind? The film doesn’t answer these questions easily, leaving room for interpretation and creating an unsettling ambiguity that lingers long after the credits roll.

The supporting cast, including Burn Gorman as the mysterious man across the street, plays an important role in maintaining the tension. Gorman is eerie and enigmatic, making the viewer question his intentions every time he appears on screen. Karl Glusman’s portrayal of Francis is subtly effective as well, as he remains a somewhat distant figure in Julia’s life, causing the audience to wonder if he truly sees her distress or if he’s dismissing it as overreaction.

The film’s score, composed by Nathan Halpern, complements the mood perfectly with its minimalist, eerie tones. The music adds to the psychological unease, enhancing the sense of dread and paranoia. Every creaking floorboard or shadowy figure is amplified by the subtle yet effective score, making the entire experience feel more intense and unnerving.

While the film’s pacing may not be for everyone, Watcher excels in creating a suffocating atmosphere of tension and dread. The film builds to a gripping climax that is both chilling and satisfying, offering a haunting resolution without relying on over-the-top twists or gore. Instead, it leaves you with a lingering sense of unease, questioning the boundaries between fear and reality.

In conclusion, Watcher (2022) is a tightly-wound psychological thriller that excels in creating a palpable sense of fear and paranoia. With a stellar performance from Maika Monroe and a masterful atmosphere of dread, the film will resonate with fans of slow-burn horror. While it may not provide the jump scares or action-packed thrills that some viewers may expect, its psychological tension and disturbing realism make it a standout in the genre. It’s a film that keeps you guessing and lingers in your mind long after you’ve watched it.