After her sister’s murder, a psychic woman with an affection for cursed antiques visits the home that was the sight of her sister’s demise. No longer accepting the story she’s been told, she utilizes a peculiar object in hopes it will uncover the truth. Written and directed by Damian McCarthy, Oddity is a haunting experience that is immensely creepy from start to end.
While staying overnight alone at the countryside estate she’s renovating, Dani (Carolyn Bracken) receives a knock on the door by a strange man. He claims to have seen someone enter the home and pleads with Dani to let him in. She hesitates, but at some point that evening, Dani is killed.
When the suspected killer is found dead, Dani’s twin sister Darcy (Bracken) receives a personal item of his. With supposed psychic capabilities, she looks to channel the object to reveal the truth of her sister’s death. Eventually, she surprises Dani’s widower Ted (Gwilym Lee)—and his new girlfriend—at the same home, bringing a bizarre wooden mannequin along to further assist in her paranormal investigation.
Oddity sets itself up well for a compelling murder mystery. It begins with a tense cold open steeped in apprehension and dread before settling into a house of potential haunts. The film has an interesting structure to the storytelling, revealing pieces of the puzzle in a nonlinear way; which does make for an intriguing watch.
It often plays with the perspective of reality, paranoia, and the supernatural, leaving the truth a bit uncertain for the majority of the film. Because of this, the film succeeds in how it builds suspense. And it pays off on many occasions with some intense scares — which include a cheeky end scene that lingers so perfectly, leaving you sinking into your seat in anticipation.
While it houses some crafty frights and a chilling ambiance, the most iconic part of the film is the deeply unsettling conduit Darcy brings to the house, a curiously designed wooden mannequin. Its subtle movements and ominous presence play tricks on the characters and viewers alike, filling the screen with a constant state of dread.
Oddity is a gripping and atmospheric thriller that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. While you could argue the film becomes a bit predictable as Darcy uncovers the truth, it doesn’t mean its story is any less effective. With its haunting storyline, skillful suspense-building, and unsettling imagery, the film delivers a hair-raising experience.
Oddity is in theaters now
Jordy Reviews It 
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