Ashes

A young woman's life takes a terrifying turn when she discovers that her new home holds a dark secret connected to a series of ritualistic murders. As she delves deeper into the house's history, she uncovers a malevolent entity that seeks to claim her soul. She must fight for her survival against this ancient evil before it consumes her completely.

Ashes (2024) received a mixed to negative reception from critics and audiences. While some praised its atmospheric tension and commitment to practical effects, many found its plot predictable and its scares uninspired. The film struggled to stand out in the crowded horror genre, with some reviewers deeming it derivative.

• The film attempts to build suspense through atmosphere but ultimately relies on familiar horror tropes.

• Practical effects are a highlight, but they can't quite save a formulaic storyline.

• The scares are infrequent and lack originality, leaving viewers wanting more.

Google audience: Audience reviews indicate a divided response. Some viewers appreciated the film's gritty, old-school horror feel and the dedication to practical gore. However, many felt the story was unoriginal and too slow-paced, with a lack of memorable scares or compelling characters.

The low-budget production made extensive use of practical effects, with the filmmakers aiming for a grittier, more visceral horror experience reminiscent of 1970s and 1980s genre films.