Z (I) (2019) User Reviews

Creepy for the most part, but nothing else

[awfulketchup · 6/10 · 3 May 2020]

Now this review might sound a bit biased for some, I'm genuinely more scared of atmospheric slow-burn horror movies that tend to creep me out and cause goosebumps every now and then, psychological horror works more for me rather than bombastic and annoying jumpscares without substance, now with that said, therein lies the problem.

Z at first glance ticks the right boxes, it reminded me of Babadook, it started to resemble Hereditary which i was ready to embrace it as, but while those comparisons kept upping the ante as they escalated in both tone and their scare factor, Z on the other hand, does nothing despite having a easy to follow plot with one eerie twist that i wish they did more with, since this isn't a spoiler review i wont bother to give any details on that, but it became a make or break situation.

To summarize Z, it had a promising set up, there were genuinely scary moments that made my hair raise, but the last portions alongside no clear direction completely killed the momentum for me.

Final verdict: 6

Had it not been for the promising start and creep factor in some moments, i would've knocked the score by 2 and left it at 4.

Strong start that trails off in the second half

[paulsgondea · 5/10 · 12 July 2020]

This is a trend that more and more horror movies made in the last few years follow. "Z" is another one to add to that list, with a strong start that loses all sense of direction in the second half.

"Z" has the bones of a strong movie though. The main actress plays her role genuinely, and her acting interplay with the child actor is convincing. Most kids in horror movies nowadays get compared to the child in "Babadook" and this child actor is nothing of that whiny sort. He pulls off some well done solo shots. "Z" also looks great. The director manages to pull out everything he can out of his budget (which was around 400k), and produced a movie with the looks and direction five to ten times of the money that went into it. That in its own sense deserves credit, the movie's looks and sounds fantastic for the budget.

Where "Z" really begins to loose it's mark is in the direction of the plot, especially the second half. The beginning of the movie starts off well, and it's subtlety is jarring. It has jump scares few and far in between, relying more on atmosphere. The jump scares it does show are decently well done. Best of all, the characters actually act sane. They reacting to what happens like real people in real life would do, which is refreshing.

Right around the halfway point it looses its direction completely. It's a different movie, like the director switched out with someone else. "Z" turns into cheap jump scares galore, the characters devolve into morons, and the plot jumps off the path laid out by the first half of the film. This all ends with the last 20 minutes that had me peering out from hands over my eyes, not from the horror but from the cringe of the plot.

"Z" turns into a B level horror movie where gone was any sense of subtly and instead everything is presented to you at face value. Nothing against these type of horror movies, but with the potential the first half of the movie showed, it's hard to not be disappointed with how it ended. Still though, the director is one to keep an eye on. If he can learn from some of his mistakes, he can put out something worth watching all the way through. The first half of the film marks that his potential is there.

Okay so this actually spooked me

[kirbie2182 · 7/10 · 13 May 2020]

I will watch pretty much any horror movie that looks halfway decent, and I have to say, this one did scare me a few times. Yes, there were some silly jump scares, but there were also some Really effective ones, and some parts literally freaking me out, and that very rarely happens. Honestly I can't remember the last time I even got a little bit scared at horror movie, so that's gotta say something right?! Some of the scares were really affective, others not as much, but I thought this one was really pretty damn entertaining. The actors are really good too, especially the mother. I'm not saying it's anything super original, but if you're watching this in one alone in the dark around midnight, you're bound to get a more than a little freaked out in parts, which is what you want in a horror movie right? I guess my point is that I was pleasantly surprised considering the amount of crap that gets put out these days, especially in the Horror genre. This year in particular they have been consistently pretty terrible, so when you find a decent one it makes you want to praise it for actually having some sort of affect on you. It may not be one that will Leave a lasting impression, but I doubt you will be disappointed. For a unheard of movie, with no PR, or word of mouth, it was nice to find it amongst the recent barrage of trash that passes for horror movies these days. Just sit back and enjoy it.

Dropped the ball big time

[jenniferlynn-49555 · 1/10 · 12 May 2020]

Trailer looked good and I enjoy shudder, so what could go wrong? Where it lost me and couldn't get me back. The CGI 'Z' jumping at the dad. Wow that was embarrassing. I thought, really? They should have just left the glowing eyes. House is completely engulfed in flames, in a nice neighborhood but no sirens.

When Z got in bed with her, I was waiting for good night hunny. What was with the 2%? In the beginning the teacher said, Josh was one of her favorites but she was shooting him dirty looks the whole time. The rest was just implausible things. If a child is on the railroad tracks, with a train speeding towards him, there would not be enough time to run upstairs and hang yourself. Cops showing up for a wellfare check with guns drawn, yet letting the doctor get in front. Does Josh ever get in trouble? Possibly killed a kid, drew (in what I'm guessing is charcoal) on the wall... The WHOLE wall!!! He's suspended but goes to some game place as a reward.

The only good parts were Z behind the doctor, the dead grandma and when the kid was thrown off the stairs. Just watch the trailer and save some time.

Z (2019) is a pretty good movie with an excellent actress leading it!

[JJett131313 · 7/10 · 2 May 2020]

I watched this movie last night and thought it was pretty good! Keegan Connor Tracy is just such a phenomenal actress and she shines in this film. it's not "scary" per se but the film does have a sense of dread/creepiness throughout much of it. there are a couple of shocking moments in the film that thankfully didn't feel like "jump scares" (i can't stand lame/cheap jump scares). one scene in particular made me gasp and yell out "HOLY CRAP!". lol. it's definitely a good drama/horror movie with very good acting from the entire cast.

Worst sound editing.

[mczyczlo · 1/10 · 13 August 2020]

Whoever was in charge with sound did the worst job I've ever heard. The voices were so quiet I had to turn the volume so high and when the music in the movie starts I have to turn it down again because my living room is shaking. Did the actors not have one of those big mics hanging above their heads ? I'm only 15 min in so far and I had to get in on a review.

"Drop Dead Fred" from hell.....

[s3276169 · 7/10 · 6 September 2020]

"Z" is a not half bad little horror flick from Canada.

The best way I can describe it is a "Drop Dead Fred" 1991 "Boogeyman" 2005 mash up. Or put another way, the imaginary friend from hell.

Much of what takes place, at first feels psychological but that notion is soon dismissed, as things take a very real turn for the worse.

The atmosphere established in one rooted in family with a child like quality that soon darkens. Family harmony is transformed into violence, menace, terror and a hint of madness. its handled well with solid production values backed by decent acting.

There are at least two scare opportunities, I noted, that could have been developed a little further had extra time been taken to consider what makes horror "tick".

That said, I feel there's a lot more to like here than not. Its creative, subtle and eerily spooky. No small thing in a film world filled with beige knock offs, of knock off's.

7/10 from me.

They had a solid 5

[MagicMurderFan · 3/10 · 19 May 2020]

Then the ending just sucked. So stupid. You almost had me. Even with the crappy cgi, but no, you just write a ridiculous ending.

z for yourself

[ops-52535 · 7/10 · 1 May 2020]

Because ive z'n it and took a a-z toll on me. its not an original nor spectacularly brilliantly made because its a low budget flick, and it follows the main stream horrorgenre of to day. but it all becomes very real due to good sound and visual effects, so if you were or are still afraid of ''bolla''or the ''boogieman'', you might have someone else by your side or let them z it first.

but z is pretty scary ja, just let you know that, and the acting are fairly well done and the shock the monkey moments are abrupt and pretty heartstopping at its best. so if you can swallow some dead z-water inbetween the waves of horror youll get a nice time.

its all a question of sanity, and whether you like it or not its like the apple falling down, its mother like son and a whole lot of questions that come to ones mind after watching movies like these.

im usually a grumpy old man when reviewing the horror genre, but this was an exception from my book of rulez. its well made ,thin plotted, but highly recommendable.

Had potential but lost it

[LittleLotti · 5/10 · 19 May 2020]

I didn't expect this movie to be great, but it quickly got my attention and I thought it was going to surprise me. It did, but not in a good way.

I appreciate the fact that this is another "imaginary friend isn't imaginary" tale yet managed to be original. Unfortunately it was a little too odd and there were too many things that just didn't make sense or weren't plausible. I was so disappointed by the end.

Evil imaginary friend

[Woodyanders · 8/10 · 11 April 2022]

The imaginary friend of 8-year-old boy Joshua (a sturdy and appealing portrayal by the adorable Jeff Klyne) turns out to be an all-too-real dangerous monster. It's up to Joshua's worried mother Beth (a fine performance by Keegan Connor Tracy) to figure out a way to stop Z before it's too late.

Director/co-writer Brandon Christensen relates the eerie and engrossing story at a constant pace, ably crafts a spooky and unsettling mood, and generates a good deal of tension. The sound acting from the capable cast helps a lot: Sean Rogerson as ineffectual dad Kevin, Sara Canning as Beth's estranged sister Jenna, and Stephen McHattie as concerned shrink Dr. Seager. The grim ending packs a jolting punch. A nifty little fright film.

Typical

[robdcrotts · 6/10 · 23 May 2022]

Surprise surprise, yet again another movie where the husband doesn't believe the wife about what she has seen or experienced. The typical, you're tired, you're stressed, you're going through a lot right now...but he just gave her the ol' "grow up". Such a tiring song n' dance.

More lifeless than your long-deceased childhood hamster

[papadopoulos-panos · 3/10 · 14 May 2020]

Great horror movie. Intense, pacey, fillled with dark, spooky performances, based on an inspired script.

Now imagine the exact opposite. You've just seen Z.

HIT and MISS

[ben2104 · 5/10 · 20 May 2020]

Good suspence at the beginning However it faded further into the movie It could have been better however I've seen worse

Great Start

[heno-45762 · 6/10 · 24 November 2020]

Slow burn 1st half of the movie ,gritty and scary (storyline is very freaky).Acting is on cue, we'll directed.2nd half of the movie is strange , still scary but fails.To many plot holes and no complete understanding.This could of been a great original horror movie. 6.5 yet did like it

Z or zzzzzzzzz

[thomas33911 · 3/10 · 10 September 2020]

Not...not good. Boring. A bit all over the place. Horror fans, try something else. Trust me. Only reason I gave it a 3 was for the "fun" surprise when he visits his friend from school.

Surprising

[myers-56121 · 7/10 · 11 May 2020]

I have been searching high and low for a decent thriller. This, was a such a shock. It hit all the checkmarks for creepy and it wasn't super cheesy like all the rest that have been released in the past decade. No cheesy jump scares or clichés same as all the rest. I would definitely suggest this if you're as sick and tired of all the others. The suspense was great. As far as the acting was concerned it definitely could have used some improvement. But overall a good movie. If you're looking for a movie that will make a chick want to hold you tight. Watch this in the dark with her!

Oof don't waste your time

[gorram-daleks · 1/10 · 4 August 2020]

Story has been done before and better. There really isn't anything redeeming about this one. Awful characters, dialogue, and acting. A few cheap jump scares and absolutely zero internal logic.

Terrible direction and acting

[msqaf00 · 21 July 2020]

I watched 95% and it could have been a somewhat decent horror film with a different director. The acting is mediocre but a little direction would have done wonders.

Boring

[rngfarrell · 2/10 · 29 September 2020]

This movie is absolute tripe. The story is boring, the script is recycled trash, the casting is questionable and there doesn't appear to be any thought put into how the themes and story fit together (because they don't).

Zed.

[morrison-dylan-fan · 8/10 · 11 May 2020]

Deciding to stick to streaming Shudder after my free 30 days trial was over due to being impressed by their exclusives/original films. Checking Shudder UK's Twitter page,I found a brand new original had recently been uploading, leading me to put a viewing reminder note in my diary, with the last letter of the alphabet.

View on the film:

Wisely limiting Z to two full appearances, co-writer/(with Colin Minihan) director Brandon Christensen & cinematographer Bradley Stuckel closely work with sound designer Miguel Nunes in friending a highly evocative soundtrack of subtle creaking floorboards, walks up/down the stairs and electronic toys, creating a strong, chilling impression of Z.

Whilst being part of the post-Insidious (2010-also reviewed) New Wave of Haunted House movies, with jet black shadows papering the household walls, Christensen brilliantly runs a creepy atmosphere from the breakdown of the Parsons family, in long, still wide-shots held on events taking place in the background of each shot, and playful in-camera tricks of panning/close-ups to reactions of off screen sound effects bringing out the terror Z holds the Parsons in.

Starting Joshua and Z's friendship with the traditional set-up of kid has a imaginary friend,which turns out not to be imaginary, the screenplay by Brandon Christensen and Colin Minihan, intensely move that outline to Gothic Horror chills from a excellent character study of Elizabeth Parsons (played by a stunningly brittle Keegan Connor Tracy) thanks to Elizabeth's son Joshua becoming pals with Z, breaking open trauma from her own suppressed childhood memories.

Unveiling the Parson's history of Z from research by family doc Dr. Seager (played with sombre gravitas by Stephen McHattie, the writers twist the Haunted House into a icy ending that brings Elizabeth back to her friend Z.

Babadook part 2?

[devils_neighbor_667 · 7/10 · 13 May 2021]

A not bad horror film with a couple definite scares, but you need to be in the right frame of mind and enjoy films with deeper traumatic meanings behind them to enjoy this thoroughly.

Steadily gets worse

[deadbydawn2013 · 2/10 · 21 February 2021]

The whole story is completely dumb and poorly conceived. A couple of jump scares of a bad CGI demon is all you get throughout the whole film. The demon apparently likes drinking milk, eating sandwiches and playing kids games. Scary. But is it a demon or all in her mind....? You never find out and by the end I couldn't care less and just wanted this painful mess to be over. Don't waste your time

Promising set up however

[eventlaunch · 3/10 · 4 May 2020]

It all comes tumbling down in third act, bad movie just couldn't be saved by good acting

Underrated gem.

[matosoluiza · 6/10 · 29 January 2023]

This was actually quite an interesting movie.

Pros: Creepy.

Thrilling.

Original story.

Fast-paced.

Good acting after the first 10 minutes.

Effective jumpscares.

Underrated.

Cons: Ending is overdone.

The first 10 minutes has dreadful acting.

A few major flaws.

It is a pretty good little flick, and thought the rating is but 5.5/10, you should watch it. It is a good horror movie and it is worth the time. Sure they could've done better with the ending, but other than that it is a good movie.

I have a few more characters that I had to write to complete this review so here are all of them...