‘Cobweb’ Delivers the Expected Chills for a Thrilling Horror

The film, ‘Cobweb,’ skillfully crafts its ambiance through methodical camera movements, an atmosphere of suburban seclusion, and a select cast of characters. With its spine-tingling storyline, it effectively immerses the audience in the lives of Mark, Carol, and Peter. However, midway through the narrative, the initial captivation gradually diminishes, culminating in a somewhat underwhelming conclusion. The film grapples with sustaining its initial momentum, leaving viewers in a quandary regarding its genre classification – should it be considered a supernatural thriller or a monster movie? ‘Cobweb’ ultimately misses the opportunity to maintain a coherent narrative direction following pivotal revelations. Certain segments within the film may appear somewhat implausible, detracting from the seriousness of an otherwise promising plot that commences on a strong note.

The heart of the plot revolves around Peter (depicted by Woody Norman), an eight-year-old who begins hearing peculiar sounds emanating from the walls of his bedroom during the late hours. His parents, Carol (portrayed by Lizzy Caplan) and Mark (played by Antony Starr), dismiss these sounds as mere figments of Peter’s imagination. However, as Peter forges a unique connection with the enigmatic ‘Sound’ resonating from the walls, it is unveiled that this entity is, in fact, Peter’s long-lost brother, confined within the walls by his very parents. These revelations subsequently prompt Peter to question his parents and approach them with a degree of skepticism. Seeking assistance, Peter even turns to his schoolteacher, Miss Devine (played by Cleopatra Coleman). Meanwhile, the ‘Sound’ endeavors to convince Peter that he is the next in line to be harmed by his own parents.

The film skillfully establishes an atmosphere laden with suspense and intrigue through its clever use of dim lighting and the suburban backdrop. Regrettably, the screenplay tends to grow somewhat convoluted as the narrative unfolds. The portrayal of Mark and Carol remains underdeveloped, making it challenging to comprehend why they persistently exhibit a stern demeanor toward their own child for a substantial portion of the film. The notion that parents would confine their child in a basement overnight and subject him to such a harrowing experience appears bewildering. Additionally, it is hardly plausible that, following their child’s expulsion from school due to a peculiar incident, the parents would opt for homeschooling rather than seeking alternative enrollment. The veil of mystery shrouding Mark and Carol, unfortunately, becomes one of the film’s significant downsides, highlighting that excessive secrecy can undermine a storyline.

_{Repurposed article as originally published in the Times of India}