Evil Eye

I hadn't heard about this 2022 Mexican horror movie titled "Mal De Ojo" (aka "Evil Eye") prior to sitting down to watch it. All I knew about it was that it was a horror movie. And that was essentially also all I needed to give it a go. Writers Junior Rosario, Edgar San Juan and Isaac Ezban put together a rather enjoyable script for the movie. Though I had figured out the plot about 40 minutes into the movie, and it actually panned out as I had predicted it to. The storyline and narrative in "Mal De Ojo" was good and entertaining. It was a well-written story and concept, and it provided me with genuine entertainment. I was by no means familiar with the cast ensemble in this movie as I have next to no experience with the Mexican cinema. But the actresses and actors in the movie put on good performances. Visually then "Mal De Ojo" was quite good. I liked the special effects in the movie. My rating of director Isaac Ezban's "Mal De Ojo" movie lands on a six out of ten stars.

We all know the story behind The Evil Eye. Actually, many stories- and in most countries those stories are taken quite seriously. Mexico is one. It's been said that just a strong glance can cast a spell on those most vulnerable- babies and small children- resulting in illness or even death. The Aztec and Mayan Cultures date this phenomenon back as early as 1300 BC. Even today, almost all countries have bracelets designed to either repel or absorb this "negative energy". Now, take the truly original imagination of one of Mexico's most gifted young filmmakers- and you may have something really special. This story revolves around a family of 4 - William & Rebecca, and their two young daughters- Nala (played by promising Paola Miguel) and Luna- who is ill. The movie begins with her hospitalization. She has organ failure and there is nothing more they can do. In desperation, Rebecca turns to her estranged mother- played brilliantly by Ofelia Medina. She has not seen her mother in years, and the family have never met her. Ezban creates immediate sustained tension between all 3 women. Parents go away for a few days, leaving both kids alone with Grandma and her Maid - Abigail. Right off the bat, Nala and Grandma are at each other's throats. Their angst grows while little Luna's life hangs in the balance. One night, Abigail tells both kids a scary tale about Triplets. In the story, an evil Witch pays them a visit at night to suck a child's blood in order to steal their youth. One girl got so sick, that the other 2 sisters in the story sought help from a Sorcerer and struck a deal- She taught the girls how to make a "Baca"- a Caribbean mythical being who grants wishes but in turn- brings evil. The stage is set. What fascinates me with Witchcraft are the details. For example, they remove their skin - when they fly- only to "reskin" themselves later, and Salt proves deadly. Ezban creates this horrifying creature with little to no CGI. This film is a battle to the end between Grandma and Nala until reaching its shocking, ambiguous conclusion. Shout out to the amazing Production Design by Adelle Achar- Her work was brilliant in "El Incidente". She has a great future ahead. Her imagination and attention to detail perfectly complements Ezban's unique vision. Solid 8/10.

A surprisingly kinda impressive horror film from Mexico. The visuals, cinematography, VFX + practical effects and the locations were very Hollywood looking and expensive. Lots of scary moments that I had to skip because it was too frightening and disturbing. I saw that twist coming a mile away and it was staring right at our faces. A surprisingly kinda impressive horror film from Mexico. The visuals, cinematography, VFX + practical effects and the locations were very Hollywood looking and expensive. Lots of scary moments that I had to skip because it was too frightening and disturbing. I saw that twist coming a mile away and it was staring right at our faces.

No pun intended - the movie does take its time. And maybe it could have done with some trimming .. but almost everything is there for a reason. And once you've watched it through you will understand. Other movies did have similar story reveals or whatever you want to call them. So maybe you can tell where the movie is heading (I sort of did), but it still does so nicely ... for everyone who is in it to be surprised ... and shocked of course. There are a few scenes, where if you are not "horror" prepared ... well they will give quite the jolt! Some may be a bit over the top ... but that is what it is about. Horror movies that is. You may know the director from other, well weirder stuff. This right here is straight up horror ... and it works quite well to say the least. Especially because it is or rather we see it through the eyes of a child. Can we be sure, she knows what she sees? Is her judgement in order? Would any adult listen to her anyway? So many things to consider ... and still there is a plan here ...