Sick is perfectly executed from start to finish
I have often found myself on my couch in my pyjamas watching a “trending” movie only to be disappointed. However, its been a year since I began going to the movie theatre once a week, ordering a Combo #1 and sinking into a comfy stadium seat. After seeing a commercial for Sick (2022) I was persuaded to change my routine. Sick is a slasher film (now available to rent) set during Covid. I wondered is it too soon to revisit a period that was so unusual and isolated? The answer is NO, Sick intelligently creates fear out of the relatable.
The nineties were typified by smart teenage-led horror films that included Scream (‘96) and I Know What You Did Last Summer ‘(97.) Serving as writer on both was Kevin Williamson, the co-writer of Sick. The opening scene of Sick begins with visuals that have come to define 2020. From the arrow lines on grocery store floors to the hoarding of toilet paper, every moment is accurately shown. Immediately I could feel my pandemic uneasiness return and I welcomed it. I can still recall Drew Barrymore in the opening sequence of Scream and how quickly I was on the edge of my seat. That same energy was prevalent during the first few minutes of Sick. Similar to Scream, Sick makes you feel anxious even before the first stab occurs. Moreover, ill sneezes and subtle coughing brilliantly compliment an abundant supply of blood and guts.
Sick captures the youth experience by focusing on attitudes and actions that transcend. Consequently, we witness the dangers of social media, the natural desire to break the rules and the prominence of athleisure in a teenage closet. Bringing these concepts to life is a young cast comprised of relative newcomers. The acting is believable and you feel that these young adults could be your friends or acquaintances. Meanwhile, every scream and fight is executed perfectly. The overhead shot on the lake as Parker (Gideon Adlon) moves to avoid the killer plays out like a sinister dance. As Parker begs a woman for help and is rejected because she’s not wearing a mask you can’t help but laugh apprehensively. Lastly, the close up of a nasal swab being pushed too deep is just the right amount of disturbing that will leave you wanting more.
Sick is successful because it takes the thriller genre and transplants it into a terrifying moment in history. I still recall seeing the streets empty and sitting at home for months restlessly. During that time streaming movies became commonplace due to both necessity and ease. That is why I find myself eager to head outside my home to be entertained. The simple act of dressing up for my weekly movie trips keeps me grounded, productive and excited to write reviews about what I love….movies.
Till next time, The Mademoiselle