Outside (2024) review

Netflix's Outside (2024) introduces a unique twist on horror, trading in traditional scares for a dive into family drama and psychological tension. The story opens with an old video recording of Francis and Iris Abel on their wedding day, a scene that evokes nostalgia but also hints at a past far from idyllic. From this beginning, the film leans more toward drama than classic horror—a choice that may surprise fans of the genre.

Visual Storytelling and Emotional Distance

Director Carlo Ledesma’s visual approach emphasizes long, steady shots that subtly track the Abels' disintegration, particularly in the family’s dining scenes. Initially, Francis and Iris sit close to their children, but by the third dinner, an emotional and physical gap has grown. These quiet moments showcase the family’s breakdown far better than dialogue alone could.

Powerful Scenes

One of the film’s most compelling scenes unfolds on a bridge that director Ledesma chose spontaneously during location scouting. This bridge symbolizes Iris’s futile desire to escape her unraveling life, but it also serves as a reminder of the trauma weighing down the family. 

Perhaps the film’s most intense moment is the infamous “chop-chop” scene, where Iris is forced to amputate her son’s arm after a zombie bite. It’s brutal and raw, with Ledesma and Gonzalez working alongside a medical expert for accuracy. But even here, the movie focuses on family trauma rather than delivering pure horror thrills.

The Outside has strong performances, beautiful cinematography, and memorable scenes, but its slower pace and heavy emphasis on drama might not resonate with everyone. It’s a unique film that steps beyond typical horror to explore darker themes but be prepared for a psychological journey rather than traditional scares.

What Reviewers Are Saying About Outside (2024)

Positive Feedback:

• Reviewers seem to appreciate the movie's ability to capture the effects of childhood trauma on a person.
• Sid Lucero's performance has been widely acclaimed, with many calling it "top-tier" and noting that it adds a profound sense of authenticity to the story.
• The portrayal of Francis' descent into paranoia and madness has been commended for its depth and unsettling realism.
• Audiences appreciate the film's focus on domestic issues, offering a refreshing shift from typical post-apocalyptic themes.

Critiques:

• Some reviewers feel the movie's runtime is excessive, with certain scenes dragging on longer than necessary.
• A common complaint is that the character deaths feel contrived, occurring more from "stupid decisions" than a believable narrative progression.