Recently, Hollywood has witnessed a new wave of low-budget horror films, produced by various film studios and subsidiaries. These films are created with relatively tight budgets and minimal marketing. However, they have received high praise before their release, with one of the standout films being Don’t Breathe.
Numerous articles have hailed Don’t Breathe as one of the must-see horror films of 2016, particularly due to the performance of Stephen Lang, who previously portrayed Colonel Miles Quaritch in James Cameron’s blockbuster Avatar.
In the official trailer, audiences are captivated by the swift and intense movements of the character portrayed by Stephen Lang. Starting with a tense atmosphere, the viewer becomes increasingly engulfed as they witness the horrific scenes unfolding within the film. The darkness transforms the ordinary setting into a chilling ground for the villain, making him a horrifying predator.
In an interview, Stephen Lang shared that he found a personal connection with his character. He does not view the blind villain merely as a horror character or a film’s antagonist, but rather as a person caught in a desperate struggle for survival in a harsh and unforgiving reality.
Directed by Fede Alvarez, who previously brought in nearly $100 million with Evil Dead—a horror film aimed at audiences with strong nerves and a budget of $17 million—he proudly discusses Don’t Breathe: “I always try to step back from what others are doing and go in the opposite direction.” At 38, the Uruguayan director expressed his desire to avoid typical horror themes such as haunted houses, curses, zombies, and all other horror tropes to showcase a new kind of terror in Don’t Breathe. He stated that for him, horror is “never about shock, but always about suspense.”
Rocky, a girl living in a criminal environment with her father and younger sister, finds herself caught in a web of circumstances. One day, Rocky’s boyfriend, named Money, convinces her to start a new life, leading her to become entangled in a home invasion of a wealthy blind man, along with her friend Alex.
Initially perceived as a simple robbery, the situation escalates when it becomes clear that the blind man is an incredibly dangerous adversary. Despite his blindness, his other senses are heightened, forcing Rocky and her companions to find ways to survive. Just a single sound or a whisper could lead to their discovery, as the blind man is quick to react and can sense their presence.
In addition to Stephen Lang, the film features performances from Jane Levy, Dylan Minnette, and Daniel Zovatto. Alongside the director, Fede Alvarez also co-wrote the script with Rodo Sayagues. Don’t Breathe is set to premiere on August 26, 2016.
