Ngày 24 The Advent Calendar (2021)

Patrick Ridremont's 'The Advent Calendar' stands as a compelling example of crafting creeping dread from a deceptively simple premise. Rather than relying on cheap jump scares, Ridremont masterfully builds a slow-burn horror experience, delving deep into the viewer's psyche through the evocative imagery of the antique advent calendar. A technical analysis reveals sophisticated use of chiaroscuro lighting and shadow play, creating a claustrophobic atmosphere that mirrors the protagonist Eva's moral descent.

Eugénie Derouand's performance as Eva is a standout, delivering a convincing portrayal of inner turmoil, from her initial desperation to her gradual corruption when confronted with brutal choices. She authentically depicts a woman trapped between hope and despair, the cost of her desires, and personal ambition. The film poses profound questions about wishes, sacrifice, and ethical boundaries, positioning it not merely as a supernatural horror film but also as a psychological study of human nature, thereby enriching the contemporary French horror genre.