Let Me In is a 2010 American-British horror film directed by Matt Reeves. The film is based on the 2004 Swedish novel, Let the Right One In, by John Ajvide Lindqvist. Let Me In follows the story of a 12-year-old boy named Owen (Kodi Smit-McPhee), who befriends a young girl named Abby (Chloë Grace Moretz) who just moved in next door, only to discover that she’s not what she seems.
Plot
The plot of Let Me In revolves around Owen and Abby’s relationship as they bond over their shared alienation from society. As they get closer, Owen begins to suspect that Abby may have some dark secrets. When he finds out that she is a vampire who needs human blood to survive, he must decide whether or not to help her.
The Scare Factor
Let Me In is not your typical horror movie. While it does have its fair share of jump scares and gore, it relies more on psychological tension and atmosphere to create a sense of dread in the viewer. The film’s slow pacing and emphasis on character development make the horror elements even more effective when they do occur.
Violence and Gore
Let Me In features scenes of violence and gore, but they are used sparingly and strategically to heighten the tension. There are several scenes where Abby attacks her victims, but these are filmed in a way that emphasizes the horror without being gratuitous.
Suspense
One of the most effective aspects of Let Me In is its use of suspense. The film builds tension slowly over time, with each scene contributing to an overall feeling of unease. This makes the eventual payoffs even more satisfying when they do occur.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere in Let Me In is dark, moody, and oppressive. The film takes place in a bleak, snowy suburb, which only adds to the sense of isolation and dread. The cinematography is excellent, with many shots framed in a way that emphasizes the characters’ loneliness and vulnerability.
Conclusion
So, how scary is Let Me In? While it may not be the most terrifying horror movie out there, it’s certainly effective in creating a sense of unease in the viewer.
Its emphasis on character development and psychological tension make it a standout in the genre. If you’re a fan of horror movies that rely more on atmosphere than jump scares, then Let Me In is definitely worth checking out.
