As the Village Sleeps (2021) User Reviews

Painful to watch

[stoob0t · 2/10 · 29 August 2021]

The only reason that I haven't rated this movie as a 1 is that the camera work and editing are reasonable enough.

That is where any praise at all ends.

The script is terrible and the acting is (on the most part) even worse. The plot is weak and any attempt to build tension fails dismally, partly but not completely, due to the ineffective score.

I can't stress enough: this isn't one of those films that is "so bad it's good". It's just plain bad.

Forget the acting, the other aspects of the movie work.

[spookyspice · 3/10 · 10 August 2021]

We open on a car pulling over to the side of a desolate road - the woman inside goes to bury something in the dirt and set it alight. Only to be disturbed and runs back to the car, the guy who was driving is missing and we hear ominous growling as she is dragged out of the car by an unseen force.

I went into this blindly and with that opening I assumed it was demons haha. I was wrong! What starts off as an indie film with questionable acting is actually a fun (bad but enjoyable once you find out what kind of bad) werewolf movie! Or is it?!

The main group are staying at a cabin on a Native Reservation when they decide to play a card game (I think it was either called Lynched or Townsfolk) which marks players as werewolves, civillians, a witch and a cat. Cut to the next scene where they're all waking up, seemingly drugged and realising that the game is real and they're being hunted. Through hazy memories and splitting up, some start to turn on each other, others banding together to try and figure out the mystery of whom the werewolf is to survive by sunrise.

I mentioned the questionable acting, and it is very questionable at that, however the werewolf makeup designs, film score and just plain wanting to find out who would end up being hunted next kept me watching.

As The Village Sleeps is out now on Prime Video!

😖Not worth to watch...!

[mekanik16 · 1/10 · 23 June 2021]

All actors are act horrible... No plot,no scare,no stories. Like students' project which is very low budget. Better you you watch Mr. Bean again and again...

Looking for a Great Werewolf flick?!? This ain't it...

[knightox · 1/10 · 17 August 2021]

Anytime I see I a new movie that's come out which reportedly states it's about lycanthropes I begin to get my hopes up. After all werewolves are probably my favorite thing to watch coming out of Hollywood. Like I said, "I begin" then reality sets in and reminds how 90% of the few werewolf movies made these day plain SUCK.

"As The Village Sleeps" is no exception. From the very beginning you can see how cheaply it was filmed. The characters (who couldn't act) are all dislikable except for possibly the older, married couple. The writing was inconsistent with plot holes all over the place. People just went missing without any explanation. The special effects and make-up were high school level. And the conclusion will leave you saying "Seriously?!?".

Yeah this film is that bad and it's people like this that give this type of movie genre a bad reputation. Hopefully they'll move on to making zombie flicks. They can try to peddle their fare there in that flooded market.

Such a worst

[biswashok · 1/10 · 29 July 2021]

Really every thing is at worst level..actings,plot cinematography etc.

Boring movie.

I want to give this rubbish 0

[patherwill · 1/10 · 24 November 2022]

I read the storyline of this film and that alone put me off. Sometimes it's good not to know any of the actors however that usually only works if the film has plus points in all or most of the other departments, which THIS TRIPE doesn't, NOT in a single one. I watched the first 29 minutes because I was hoping something, anything was going to happen to put some life into it but nothing did. More life exists in a morgue believe me. So, acting was excruciatingly bad, not even at amateur level. Script awful, juvenile behaviour throughout. Photography by way of landscapes, etc non-existent. The characters were like 20 going on 70. Horrid backing music. Give this a wide berth even if someone offers you money to watch it - DON'T.

Really fun!

[directortim2012 · 9/10 · 26 August 2022]

A low budget film, but very well done. Suspenseful, trippy, fun. Great cast. The movie builds nicely and really pulls you in. I'm not always a fan of horror, too much carnage sometimes. So I was pleasantly surprised how involved I became. The plot keeps you guessing. And it's built more around suspense that ickyness. I really have to give the film credit. As a film made for what I assume was not a big budget, they got a lot of their budget with trippy visuals and alternately fun and believable actors. All around a really fun movie. What can I say? Just great. This is one movie I can highly recommend!

Keeps You Guessing

[catheraneskillen · 7/10 · 29 August 2022]

An unlikely group of young 20 year olds gather in a remote cabin in the woods to celebrate a birthday by getting high and partying, The individuals have past histories with each other which add to the tension of the evening, two sisters connected by their Dad but don't really know each other, an ex-boyfriend who is now with the friend. At night around the campfire they play a card game about a werewolf. Suddenly they all awaken from passing out not seeming to remember what happened. This is when things go off the rails. Is the game a precursor to real events? Are they being hunted? Is reality connected to the game? You are kept guessing which hooks you in to the end. The house and surrounding woods were the perfect location for the genre. The camera work was interesting. This group of cast members was very attractive. A bit confusing at the end. This movie should appeal to horror fans.

wolf? where?

[RBIves-202-725352 · 8/10 · 19 December 2022]

This is one of those movies you watch and immediately wonder, "Why haven't I seen this before?" The setup revolves around the popular device used in get together games like werewolf, mafia, and/or among us, and is so ripe for exploration it's a wonder this is the first time I can of seeing it on screen (you could make an argument for The Thing, but it's a bit different.)

The cinematography is a little weak, and some of the acting isn't quite in tune. But those qualms aside, there is a lot here to unpack. There is a killer... we think... and it could be any of the main characters. Don't get attached to anyone because this can only come down to the final few people left to figure out the truth before it's too late. Who that will be is anyone's guess, and there will be plenty of finger pointing and distrust before we get there, not to mention a body count.

The electronic score and quick scenes keep things moving, I was rarely bored. And of course in true Jumanji fashion, the door is cracked plenty wide to let a sequel slip in sometime in the near future if the opportunity arises.

"As The Village Sleeps" ain't your typical horror flick

[hildaarani · 7/10 · 19 November 2023]

Yo, peep this: "As The Village Sleeps" ain't your typical horror flick-it's a timeless tale with a crew of fly young cats teetering on the edge of life and death. It's more about that thriller vibe, tapping into your mind's eye to stir up some serious fear. They play it slick, leaving most of the scary bits to your own imagination-mad effective and hits close to home.

What really makes this joint stand out is how it tells a banging story on a tight budget. It's a salute to low-budget filmmaking done right, capturing that suspense and thrill without dropping stacks. Most horror flicks go for the flashy, but this one? It's all about that subtle game and storytelling prowess, earning its spot in the suspense scene, no doubt.

Solid!!!!!!

[sowden_jd · 8/10 · 26 December 2022]

Well this is an indie film worth watching! As a filmmaker, really enjoyed the cinematography and the tone. It felt a little like stranger things meets teen wolf as far as tone/vibe. Really enjoyed that. I love watching these gems as an indie filmmaker myself. Acting was on point for the material, it never takes itself too seriously and I mean that in the best way. Shots and lighting were really well done. I wont give anything away but, it has its twists, but also knows when to hone it in and let the characters work. For what they sought out to do, I thought they did a great job! Check this out!

Great watch

[jedijimmy101 · 8/10 · 29 August 2022]

This film does an excellent job at giving us a story we haven't seen before all with some very good actors. The Camera work was great I found myself pausing and rewatching several shots because I enjoyed them so much. I really enjoyed the music including the end credits song I'll have to find the name of the song. I really loved that they incorporated the werewolf card game into the film I don't think that's ever been done before. I give the film an 8/10. I recommend this film if you're looking for a good watch you won't wanna miss this. Good indie films don't get enough credit. I found myself on the edge of my seat throughout the film. I kept guessing what might come next. Loved the twists and turns.

Cool indie horror

[marci-84593 · 8/10 · 30 August 2022]

What we have here is a cool indie horror where a group of "friends" go to a cabin in the woods in the middle of an Indian reservation where they get drunk and start playing a dangerous game, because hey, that's what youngsters do. And of course, it all goes terribly wrong. They get sucked into a weird game where nothing is what it seams and they turn on each other and all hell breaks loose. The fact that there is something in the woods that is hunting them one by one, doesn't help either.

If a horror about college kids fighting for their lives in dark and earie woods sound like you cup of tea, give this indie gem a go. You won't be disappointed.

Glad I took a chance on this

[helmetsandshades · 9/10 · 30 August 2022]

I love indie films and am always searching to find new movies that are well made on small budgets. This one doesn't disappoint. It fits in the horror/thriller genre, which can be filled with tropes, but this carved a new path and kept me guessing throughout.

The set up is something we've seen before -- a group of friends gets together and things go awry. But the lines get blurred quickly -- what's real? What's not? And it's precisely that gray area that I find compelling and thought-provoking. Yes, there are good scares and it's well made and acted, but it got me thinking and I keep thinking about it long after the movie was over. So bravo to the filmmakers.

Enjoyed this one

[sixtymedia · 9/10 · 30 December 2022]

As is often the case with indie horror this seems to have split the audience right down the middle.

I fell very much on the side of those who enjoyed it.

The story of a group of kids being picked off by a werewolf in a 'cabin in the woods' feels like it may be a bit run of the mill but thankfully that's not the case here - the simple premise of a the game being played by the protagonists is a really clever plot device and takes the viewer on a genuinely entertaining 'horror whodunnit'.

The cast all played it really well (my particular faves were the guys in the band!) and the direction and lighting were also very good given budgetary restraints.

All in all - if you love indie horror you should be all over this one.

inventive and surprising horror mystery

[JoshSegel · 8/10 · 12 November 2022]

NO SPOILERS. I really enjoyed this film, so I wanted to write a review. However, I don't want to give anything away, so I'll keep this fairly brief! "As The Village Sleeps" is an intriguing horror film with a fun concept (It's like a grounded and earthbound "Jumanji" with a horror twist.) and solid execution. The cast is game, the writing is clever, and the suspense builds steadily throughout. It's a well-directed indie with a plot that unfolds nicely and keeps you engaged. If you're in the mood for a surprising horror film that keeps you guessing, definitely check this one out! I'm looking forward to seeing what these filmmakers do next.

Enjoyable new indie horror/thriller

[JGReviews · 8/10 · 28 August 2022]

As The Village Sleeps is a creative take on a "living game" story. I've always been interested in movies where games start affecting reality, like Ouija, and even wondered what a horror version of Jumanji would be like. As The Village Sleep has its own take on the genre, with pretty good results, and let's give it some credit as an independent horror/thriller. If you are like me, you don't mind that a more modestly budgeted indie might not have the multi-million dollar polish of a Hollywood film, especially when the concept is fun and interesting, and the actors give it their all. I think the fact that this movie has such a high view count on Youtube channels and on other platforms is indicative that people are enjoying the film. I'd definitely recommend As The Village Sleeps for the indie horror fans out there.

Highly recommended!

[laproduccion · 8/10 · 6 October 2022]

If you are looking for a movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat, this is your best choice.

As the Village Sleeps knows how to maintain suspense throughout the movie, and gives us very interesting moments. Personally, I really liked the wide range of performances and how well directed they all are.

I've always liked movies where the personalities of each character play an important role in making you think something that isn't really what you thought, and you end up in for a surprise.

The tones that are achieved mixed with psychological tension are very interesting.

Highly recommended.

When a scary game becomes a living nightmare

[annelauremilleville · 9/10 · 17 July 2023]

"When a scary game becomes a living nightmare," that's how I would sum up "As The Village Sleeps." This is Jumanji revisited in a horror movie version. It captivated me from the very first scene. I couldn't take my eyes off the screen. I was particularly impressed by the image clarity in the night scenes. The lighting has been intelligently thought out, which is rarely the case. The music is also worth highlighting in this film. The cast distribution is good, and although the story is focused on around ten characters, it's easy to understand who's who, and the group dynamic works well. Definitely a great horror movie that kept me in suspense until the end (and this comes from someone who hates horror movies!)

Holds it ground.

[joecurry-61481 · 8/10 · 19 November 2023]

Yo, peep this: "As the Village Sleeps" ain't your typical horror-thriller, but it holds its ground. Terry Spears and Chloë Bellande bring the heat despite the low budget, using a remote spot and a crew of good-looking kids fighting for their lives. Spears plays it slick, never fully revealing the beast or the bodies, keeping it all up to your imagination. And trust, that's way more chilling than some weak gore and makeup.

They hit you with those jump scares, just like how "The Blair Witch Project" rocked it back then. The crew plays their roles tight, each character popping even as they're losing it (and maybe their lives). You got your cocky dude, the last girl standing, some boyfriends, and the pals who are basically walking targets for the horrors. Don't sleep on it-this flick knows how to work those tropes to its advantage.

More mystery than horror

[scanscapework · 8/10 · 3 May 2023]

As The Village Sleeps is more of a mystery thriller than a horror movie but I still found it to be enjoyable. Honestly, I'm not sure what's up with the mix of reviews left here. It seems as though people either love it or hate it. Which I guess is a sign that the makers of the movie did something right, right? I mean, as the audience member I think a movie should evoke something from us whether we love it or hate it, just make us feel something. Isn't that why we watch movies? To escape our own worlds for a little while and to feel something different than just the everyday world? As The Village Sleeps did that for me.

Prepare yourself for a thrilling ride

[ethan_minsker · 10/10 · 15 April 2024]

Prepare yourself for a thrilling ride as "As the Village Sleeps" takes you on an unexpected journey filled with mystery, suspense, and heart-pounding twists. Directed by Terry Spears, this film seamlessly blends elements of horror, suspense, and human drama to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience.

The story follows Sarah, portrayed brilliantly by Eleonora Saravalle, who plans a birthday weekend at her family home, uniting a diverse group of friends and relatives. However, what begins as a celebration quickly takes a sinister turn when they stumble upon a mysterious card game with origins rooted in legend.

What makes "As the Village Sleeps" truly captivating is its ability to keep audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish. As the game unfolds, tensions rise, and the line between reality and legend blurs, leading to a series of chilling encounters that will leave viewers guessing until the very end.

The ensemble cast delivers standout performances, bringing depth and authenticity to each character. From the charismatic Sarah to the enigmatic stranger who introduces the game, every actor immerses themselves fully into their roles, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.

One of the film's greatest strengths lies in its ability to explore themes of friendship, betrayal, and survival amidst the chaos. As the characters are forced to confront their deepest fears and darkest secrets, "As the Village Sleeps" delves into the complexities of human nature, leaving audiences questioning who they can trust until the final credits roll.

"As the Village Sleeps" is a must-see for any lover of suspense and horror.

What a trippy little ride this is!

[Extra-Artsy · 8/10 · 3 May 2023]

What a trippy little ride this is! As The Village Sleeps is not your regular cabin in the woods horror film. Yes it is set in a cabin in the woods with beautiful young people that come together for a party but it's not full of a lot of blood and guts. Actually there is very little blood and no guts that I can remember. It is suspenseful and full of mystery and probably more of a mystery thriller in my opinion than a horror flick but still I found it interesting and I watched it through til the end. Maybe it doesn't quite deserve 8 stars but honestly it's not a bad flick to pass the time on a rainy day.

It Wasn't THAT Bad!

[trinitywrtz · 9/10 · 26 November 2023]

I don't think people are truly giving this film the credit it deserves, anyone would be able to tell they had a lower budge, sure, but they worked with what they had and I thought it was pretty good. I was unsure at first but it pulled me in. I really like the storyline that they used for it too, it was unique, the only thing I would've preferred is if they actually showed some sort of gore or the werewolf for more than a split second, but I understand that that might not have been possible. Anyway, like I said, I enjoyed the movie, I thought it was pretty good and I don't think the acting was that bad either, I've seen way worse movies that are super popular just for being stupid. So I'm not sure why this film has such a low rating with hate, I think it was super fun!

"As The Village Sleeps" stands as a testament to the craft of low-budget filmmaking done right

[fredunderland · 8/10 · 12 November 2023]

"As The Village Sleeps" unfolds as a timeless narrative featuring a group of young and attractive individuals navigating the precarious line between life and death. Positioned more as a thriller than a conventional horror film, it intriguingly taps into the power of imagination to evoke fear. The film skillfully leaves much of the horror to the viewer's imagination, a tactic that proves effective and resonant.

What sets this movie apart is its ability to deliver a compelling story despite its modest budget. "As The Village Sleeps" stands as a testament to the craft of low-budget filmmaking done right, successfully capturing the essence of suspense and thrill. In a genre often reliant on extravagant visuals, this film showcases the potency of subtlety and storytelling, making it a noteworthy addition to the realm of suspenseful cinema.