I have a simple logic. When you don’t have anything remarkably new to add to a story, why make a sequel? While “Bird Box Barcelona” takes us back into the intriguing world of supernatural creatures and blindfolded survival, it fails horribly to provide us with a new experience. Trying to keep us at the edge of our seat, the sequel falls flat on its face, and you regret watching it. Need to watch the first one again to value its importance smh.
Plot
So if you have watched the original (which I highly recommend), you know that things are real fcked in the world. There are creatures jisko dekhte hi you become suicidal, and hence the whole world is a mess. Sebastian and his daughter Anna are navigating the half-wrecked city of Barcelona, but multiverse ki pratha ko jagaye rakhte hue, is universe of Bird Box mein some people turn into seers after encountering the creepy creatures. They live, but make sure everyone else sees the ‘Gods’. Isi mess mein Sebastian and his daughter run into a group of survivors, who are planning to go to a supposedly safe place (alomost like the one at the end of Bird Box). But can they get through is the question.
Performances
Well, for a horror thriller, you never really feel the connect with most of the characters. Mario Casas and Alejandra Howard deliver heartfelt performances, portraying the emotional father-daughter bond. Being the lead of the movie, they understand their assignment, but it still feels superficial. Georgina Campbell as Claire and Naila Schuberth as Sophia shine as they portray the psychological turmoil of the survivors. They are the ones who really stand out for me. Sadly, most of the characters get lost in the shuffle, leaving us scratching our heads and wondering where their stories went. Even the main bad guy of this mess doesn’t have a proper backstory. Certainly a missed opportunity for a stronger emotional connection.
Screenplay and Writing
The film at its core tries to tackle themes of grief and faith. However, it’s like they touched the surface of a kids pool instead of diving deep into the depths. The writing lacks the thrill and more importantly, the originality that made us fall in love with the first “Bird Box.” You are never really scared of the creatures, and the only time you are tensed is when you encounter the seers. Plus, while the makers attempt to inject religion into the apocalyptic story, it all feels too safe, like unhe koi lafda nahi chahiye tha. It’s a missed opportunity to add depth and, a fresh angle to the story. Expected so much from the movie, but we hardly get good returns.
Cinematography and Direction
Okay won’t lie, the cinematography of the movie is pretty commendable. The desolate and eerie Barcelona is captured quite carefully, making us feel like we’re right there, blindfolded and all. That one aerial shot of the top view is really gonna stay with me for long. Also the editors do a good job to keep things tight, but it is the bland AF plot that makes you wanna sleep. The first half just doesn’t get going man. Despite the technical wizardry, the horror elements are as scarce as parking spots in a crowded city. Where’s the bite?
“Bird Box Barcelona” is like a roller coaster that promises thrills but mostly gives you a gentle ride through a slightly creepy amusement park. While it tries to capture the magic of its predecessor, it falls short in delivering the same suspense and originality. The plot lacks surprises, the writing lacks depth, and the horror elements are literally Error 404. Sure, you must be curious ki isme naya kya hai, but I’d say you better skip it.
P.S.- Pls don’t make another movie on it.
