The most harmless things can hurt you.
The most harmless things can hurt you.
Following the success of his chilling debut, Barbarian, Zach Cregger proves he’s a force to be reckoned with, delivering another solid horror entry with Weapons. This unpredictable mystery tale blends psychological tension and dark comedy, following the disappearance of seventeen students from the same class. As suspicion from the town falls on their teacher, Justine Gandy (Julia Garner), the film propels forward with an intense atmosphere, striking visuals, and authentic performances that grip the audience.
Weapons’ compelling premise will keep viewers invested: a classroom of kids vanishes at exactly 2:17 AM, with only one student spared. One of the most intriguing aspects of Weapons is its multi-perspective narrative, which adds depth to the story, even if it occasionally loses focus. The cast delivers impressive performances, with each character’s viewpoint enriching the mystery and making the story feel deeply personal. Julia Garner shines as the troubled teacher, while Amy Madigan steals the show as the colourful and delightfully twisted Aunt Gladys – a character whose motivations could have benefited from more backstory. This strong foundation is elevated by the film’s tight pacing, which shifts seamlessly from slow-burning dread to chaotic intensity, and the expert editing and sound design that blend tension, gore, and humour.
While the story is captivating, Weapons doesn’t entirely break new ground and sometimes lacks the complexity needed to leave a lasting impression. Certain narrative choices, like the gun dream sequence referencing school violence, feel disconnected from the rest of the film. Although more frights would have amplified the experience, the Ferris Bueller-style ending is a clever touch and satisfying payoff for the audience.
