Don’t Move (2024), directed by Brian Netto and Adam Schindler, dives into the fractured psyche of Iris, portrayed by Kelsey Asbille (known from Yellowstone)—a mother haunted by the loss of her young son. Overwhelmed by despair, she leaves her bedroom at dawn, carrying only a toy boat and a pocketknife, and heads to a state park, intending to end her life.
Standing on a cliff, Iris encounters a man named Richard, played by Finn Wittrock (seen in American Horror Story and Ratched). At first, he appears sympathetic, sharing his own hardships. But just as Iris feels a connection, he tases her and injects her with a paralytic drug, setting a terrifying struggle into motion.
Now confined to his vehicle, Iris has only twenty minutes to regain control over her body before paralysis sets in completely. Her desperate escape—a journey through thorny woods and cold waters—requires a resilience she didn’t know she had.
While Finn Wittrock’s performance as the predator shifts between calm and menacing, the character lacks a deep backstory. He uses the alias “Andrew,” hinting at a serial killer’s profile, but the film misses an opportunity to fully develop his character. This lack of depth makes the thriller’s dynamic feel familiar rather than fresh.
Iris’s character arc is also somewhat predictable—rooted in trauma, her suicidal thoughts evolve into a fierce fight for survival. However, Kelsey Asbille’s portrayal brings emotional depth, particularly in scenes where her expressions reveal layers of her pain. Her journey from despair to determination is conventional but authentic, emphasizing the irony of her fight to live after deciding to end her life.
As the film progresses, suspense surrounding Iris’s paralysis fades, and Don’t Move pivots to a more standard action-thriller format. While the initial psychological tension dissipates, the chase scenes remain engaging, albeit predictable. Director Brian Netto uses genre conventions skillfully—although the approach isn’t groundbreaking, it’s polished enough to satisfy thriller fans.
From a visual perspective, Don’t Move impresses with its cinematography. Expansive wide shots capture the desolate, isolated setting, immersing viewers into Iris’s world. However, the abundance of these shots occasionally slows the pacing, creating moments of emotional distance from the character’s struggle. The shift to close-ups does restore the tension, but the constant alternation affects the overall cohesion of the experience. The lighting and cinematography turn the wilderness into an almost character-like presence, heightening the film’s atmosphere.
For viewers attracted to Don’t Move by Sam Raimi’s involvement—having produced the gripping Don’t Breathe (2016)—it’s best to keep expectations in check. While it shares some DNA with Don’t Breathe, it leans toward a conventional thriller rather than a horror experience, prioritizing a straightforward cat-and-mouse plot over groundbreaking suspense.
In summary, Don’t Move provides an entertaining journey for thriller fans but lacks the originality needed to make it unforgettable. It’s well-crafted yet predictable, offering a polished yet familiar narrative. If you’re not seeking revolutionary storytelling, it’s a solid watch. But for those looking for a groundbreaking adventure, this film may feel like a safe bet rather than a wild ride.
Rating: ★★★★★★☆☆☆☆ (6/10)