A Quiet Place: Day One

In A Quiet Place Parts 1 and 2, humanity survives sound-sensitive aliens by keeping quiet. Did you want to know how it all started on Day One? Nah... me neither, but I'm pleased to say that this seemingly unnecessary prequel is a lot better than it has any right to be. In fact, I would go so far as to say that it is my favorite of the franchise so far, helped in no small part by excellent performances from its two stars, Lupita Nyong'o and Joseph Quinn, who play two survivors of the initial attack who must work together to try and survive long enough to get pizza.

Nyong'o stars as terminally ill Samira, who is in New York City when the aliens arrive. When the authorities destroy the bridges out of Manhattan to prevent the creatures from spreading, Samira decides to head to her favorite pizza parlor to enjoy a few last slices before her illness claims her life. Quinn plays fellow survivor Eric, who helps Samira achieve her final wish.

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The film works on two levels, successfully combining scenes of heart-pounding tension with heart-tugging drama. There's plenty of well-executed alien action for those who enjoy suspense and scares, but the human interaction is also very effective, with Eric not only helping Samira with her physical journey to Patsy's Pizzeria but also with her emotional journey from resentful and bitter to selfless and content. Also, expect a great turn by a furry performer, Samira's very cute cat.

The film isn't perfect—there are moments when certain noises conveniently don't attract the immediate lethal response they usually do; the moggy magically manages to avoid drowning (or do cats hold their breath when underwater?); and a touching note written by Samira is still legible even after being completely submerged—but these are minor niggles. Overall, the film is far better than I ever thought it would be.

Director John Krasinski, who also helmed the first two films, returns to deliver a prequel that feels fresh and necessary. The decision to focus on two new characters rather than rehashing the original family’s story is a smart move, allowing the narrative to expand while maintaining the franchise's core themes of survival and human connection.

Lupita Nyong'o's portrayal of Samira is nothing short of brilliant. Her character’s determination to savor her last moments with something as simple as a pizza slice adds a layer of poignancy to the film. Nyong'o brings depth to Samira, capturing her resilience and vulnerability in a way that makes her journey deeply affecting. Joseph Quinn's Eric is the perfect counterpart, offering support and companionship that feels genuine and heartfelt. Their chemistry is undeniable, making their shared scenes compelling and emotionally charged.

The film's pacing is tight, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats while providing just enough breathing room for character development. The alien encounters are as terrifying as ever, with Krasinski skillfully ratcheting up the tension during these scenes. The stakes are high from the beginning, and the film never lets up, delivering a relentless sense of danger that keeps audiences hooked.

One of the standout elements of A Quiet Place: Day One is its ability to blend suspense with heartfelt moments. The journey to Patsy's Pizzeria is fraught with peril, but it’s the quieter, more introspective scenes that leave a lasting impact. Watching Samira come to terms with her fate and find peace in her final hours is profoundly moving. Eric’s unwavering support and their growing bond provide a counterbalance to the relentless terror of the alien threat.

The film's production design deserves special mention. The depiction of a New York City plunged into chaos is both realistic and haunting. The attention to detail, from the abandoned streets to the eerie silence that pervades every scene, enhances the film’s atmosphere and immersion. The sound design, crucial to the franchise’s success, is once again top-notch, using silence and sound to create an intense, almost palpable sense of fear.

Despite its minor flaws, A Quiet Place: Day One stands out as a strong addition to the series. It expands the universe in meaningful ways, offering new perspectives and deepening the lore without undermining what made the original films so effective. The movie is a testament to the power of storytelling and character-driven narratives within the horror genre.

In conclusion, A Quiet Place: Day One may have seemed like an unnecessary prequel, but it proves itself to be a valuable and engaging entry in the franchise. With standout performances from Lupita Nyong'o and Joseph Quinn, a compelling story, and expertly crafted suspense, it’s a film that not only holds its own but might just be the best of the series. It’s a journey worth taking, filled with tension, heart, and a surprising amount of emotional depth. So, if you’re a fan of the franchise, or just in the mood for a well-made horror thriller, this is one prequel that won’t disappoint.