Movie Review: 'Five Nights at Freddy’s' - A Wholesome Halloween Adventure

Just in time for Halloween, 'Five Nights at Freddy’s' comes to the screen, inspired by a popular video game. It promises spooky animatronic creatures, akin to those found in a Chuck E. Cheese. However, it offers a different kind of thrill.

The film attempts to bring a chill, but the characters aren't all that scary. They sport big bright eyes and sharp teeth, yet some don whimsical accessories like bow ties. They exude more charm than chills. While they move with mechanical precision, one is a plump chicken with a sign that reads "Let’s Eat." They're reminiscent of cuddly teddy bears rather than frightful figures. There's even a character fashioned after a cupcake!

Designed for older kids, not too young or too old, it aims for a level of scariness that's just right. However, it doesn't quite hit the mark and falls short of expectations. Some might argue it's among the weaker offerings this year.

The tale follows a young man who takes on the role of a night watchman at an aging pizza and games establishment for kids. This venue closed its doors long ago due to a string of mysterious disappearances.

The lead character, portrayed by Josh Hutcherson, strikes a balance between toughness and kindness. He receives advice to simply do his job and not let the place spook him.

He assumes this position to look after his little sister, Abby, impressively played by Piper Rubio. The cast also includes Mary Stuart Masterson and Matthew Lillard, adding depth to the family dynamic.

Director Emma Tammi, alongside the writing team, endeavors to infuse the narrative with layers beyond just creepy robots. They introduce elements like family secrets, vanished siblings, and even a touch of romance. Yet, at times, the effort feels a tad forced.

Towards the climax, the protagonist exclaims, "I made a mistake. I don’t want this." You might find yourself nodding in agreement.

Numerous aspects might pique your curiosity. Why was the song "Talking in Your Sleep" used so prominently? Why do the writers seem unfamiliar with the concept of aging? Dialogues sometimes shift abruptly from friendly to irate within the same scene. And why was it only revealed in the final moments that the Care Bears can talk?

Interestingly, some of the most engaging sequences unfold within a dream-like state. You might find yourself nudging your seatmate awake to share in the excitement!

There's a sequence featuring a ball pit, intended to be eerie, but it falls a bit flat. The nadir arrives when the animatronics, Freddy Fazbear, Bonnie, Chica, and Foxy, host a kiddie dance party. It's almost as if they can't quite break free from their inner joviality, reminiscent of characters from Jim Henson's Muppets. Perhaps this entire venture should have remained a game.

'Five Nights at Freddy’s' is a Universal Pictures release, available both in theaters and on Peacock. It's tailored for older kids due to some spooky elements, blood, and a few strong words. The runtime is approximately 110 minutes. On a scale of zero to four stars, it merits a zero.

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