Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
"Unfriended: Dark Web" is a gripping and unnerving horror-thriller that takes the found footage genre to a new level by exploring the darkest corners of the internet. Directed by Stephen Susco, this sequel to the 2014 film "Unfriended" offers a fresh and innovative take on modern horror, blending the terrors of the digital world with the real-life horrors that lurk behind computer screens.
The film's premise revolves around Matias (Colin Woodell), a young man who acquires a second-hand laptop and unknowingly stumbles upon a hidden cache of disturbing files. As he delves deeper into the laptop's sinister secrets, he becomes entangled in a dark web conspiracy that puts not only his own life but also the lives of his friends in jeopardy.
One of the film's greatest strengths is its execution through the perspective of a computer screen, which serves as the primary canvas for the entire narrative. This technique effectively immerses the audience in the digital world, making it feel like a voyeuristic experience. It's a bold and unique choice that pays off by intensifying the suspense and unease.
The tension in "Unfriended: Dark Web" is palpable and unrelenting. As Matias and his friends communicate through video chats, text messages, and web searches, the audience becomes an unwitting participant in their increasingly dire situation. The use of technology as a vehicle for fear is executed masterfully, tapping into the very real fears of online privacy invasion, cyberbullying, and the hidden horrors of the internet's dark side.
The film's characters are well-crafted, with each friend having their distinct personalities and vulnerabilities. The cast delivers convincing performances that make it easy for the audience to connect with their struggles and fears, despite limited screen time and interaction. Colin Woodell's portrayal of Matias is particularly noteworthy, as he manages to convey the character's growing desperation and terror convincingly.
Where "Unfriended: Dark Web" falls short is in its exploration of the broader implications of the dark web and the moral dilemmas that arise from the characters' choices. While it effectively presents the immediate dangers they face, it could have delved deeper into the ethical and philosophical questions that arise when one finds themselves in possession of dangerous information.
Additionally, some viewers may find the ending divisive, as it leaves certain plot threads unresolved. However, this ambiguity can be seen as a deliberate choice that adds to the film's unsettling atmosphere, leaving room for interpretation and discussion.
In conclusion, "Unfriended: Dark Web" is a compelling and chilling horror-thriller that successfully leverages the fears associated with the digital age. Its innovative approach to storytelling, combined with strong performances and a relentless sense of dread, makes it a must-see for fans of modern horror. While it may not answer all of its moral and narrative questions, it certainly raises them in a thought-provoking way, leaving audiences pondering the true horrors that lurk in the depths of the internet long after the credits roll.
