Nov. 09, 2019|United Kingdom|87 Min.|n/A
Genre: Horror
Description: When a vintage Jack-in-the-box is discovered and opened, its new owners quickly realize that the eerie clown doll inside seems to have a life of its own. **The Jack in the Box (2019)** is a film that struggles to balance its intriguing concept with a somewhat overdone execution.
Lawrence Fowler’s work falls victim to two conflicting realities. On one hand, the golden cube at the center of the story holds both aesthetic appeal and mysterious potential. On the other, the narrative relies heavily on a familiar paranormal trope: an ancient demonic entity takes the form of a clown and wreaks havoc whenever it chooses. This unpredictability becomes a challenge as the story unfolds.
As Fowler delves deeper into the monster’s lore—such as its need to consume six souls—the plot begins to lose its grip, becoming as formulaic as countless other supernatural tales. While the idea is captivating, its execution feels unoriginal.
The film does shine in its visual design, particularly the portrayal of the demonic clown, Jack. His lifeless yet piercing eyes evoke a sense of terror and servitude, creating a chilling depiction of evil. However, the character’s potential for fear is undermined by overly complex rules and a lackluster protagonist.
In summary, **The Jack in the Box** offers a visually striking take on a common horror theme but falls short of delivering a truly spine-chilling experience.
Cast director: Lawrence Fowler
Cast actor: Ethan Taylor, Robert Nairne, Lucy-Jane Quinlan, Philip Ridout, Darrie Gardner, Stacey Lynn Crowe, Vinnie Clarke, Charles Abomeli, Tom Carter
Original name: The Jack in the Box