In 2009, a unique horror film called “Orphan” was released. So ten years later let’s summarize why this film still stands strong today, particualry today within this golden age of horror with films such as “Get out,” “A Quiet Place,” and “Hereditary.”
The plot centres on John (Peter Sarsgaard) and Kate (Vera Farmiga) who have gone through a recent tragedy of a pregnancy that ended in stillbirth, and they are now in the market for a new child and visit an orphanage open house; and in defiance of horror films they pick the creepiest girl they can find. Esther (Isabelle Fuhrman) is the picture of innocence and wears antique dresses to symbolise her doll aesthetic. She avoids all the other children and her previous family died in a house fire. Her being an introvert is what draws John and Kate to her as they feel the same way. However, that innocent picture doesn’t last for long, and as the tag line on the poster states there’s something wrong with Esther, and soon bad things start to happen. Out of the couple, Kate is the only one that can see the truth, but she needs to convince everyone before it’s too late and so the plot thickens.
The acting on display is above par for the genre with strong performances from both leads Sarsgaard and Farmiga, who are able to explore the handful of character flaws that John and Kate embody. Themes such as alcoholism, infidelity, and past traumatic events all come into play and cause tension between them which Esther expertly plays on to pit the couple against each other. However, the main stand-out performance comes from Isabelle Fuhrman who joins the rank of creepy children in horror films. She is sickenley sweet when necessary and a complete bad ass the rest of the time, also her glares and threats will make you cringe with nervous laughter whilst simultaneously being scared what her next move will be.
Amidst the positives, there are a few negatives, one being that this is a long movie; however, the last twenty minute stretch will knock you out of your seat from what you are hearing and seeing on-screen. With it being a long movie the first hour is a slow burn, but towards the end there is a twist which spins the whole movie on it’s end, even to the point of hilarity which was probably not the reaction the film-makers wanted.
All in all “Orphan” is a good horror film, but its main reason for longevity in the horror genre is the stellar performances that carry the movie forward after the plot quickly moves from somewhat disturbing to absolute hilarity.
