The First Omen – Film Review

The First Omen skillfully weaves a prequel tapestry that fans of the franchise will undoubtedly appreciate. Directed by Arkasha Stevenson, with a screenplay penned by Tim Smith, Keith Thomas, and Stevenson herself, the film not only enriches the lore of its predecessor, The Omen (1976), but also stands as a formidable supernatural horror film in its own right. Featuring standout performances by Nell Tiger Free, Sônia Braga, Ralph Ineson, Bill Nighy, and Tawfeek Barhom, the film is both a narrative and visual feast, darkly engaging from start to finish.

At the heart of The First Omen is Margaret Daino (Nell Tiger Free), an American novitiate whose journey to take her vows at a Rome-based orphanage quickly spirals into a nightmarish quest entangled with demonic prophecies and a chilling conspiracy. The movie’s adept narrative unfolds with a measured pace, gracefully balancing horror elements with a suspenseful storyline that explores themes of faith, deception, and the eternal battle between good and evil. Margaret’s transition from a naive young woman to a protagonist grappling with the realization of her own involvement in a prophecy is both compelling and convincingly portrayed by Free.

Arkasha Stevenson’s direction shines throughout the film, particularly in how she crafts the eerie atmosphere that fans of The Omen series expect. The haunting score and cinematography synergize to create a palpable tension that lingers long after the screen goes dark. Scenes depicting supernatural occurrences are executed with a finesse that avoids overreliance on CGI, opting instead for practical effects and ambiance to evoke fear and anticipation.

The supporting cast also adds depth to the narrative, with Ralph Ineson’s Father Brennan and Bill Nighy’s Cardinal Lawrence delivering powerful performances that are both menacing and enthralling. Sônia Braga as Sister Silvia provides a nuanced portrayal of faith tested by diabolical forces, further enriching the film’s complex web of characters. Tawfeek Barhom’s Father Gabriel stands as a beacon of conflicted morality, adding layers to the narrative that invite viewers to ponder the nuances of belief and the price of redemption.

Despite its strengths, The First Omen is not without its shortcomings. The film sometimes struggles with pacing, particularly in its middle section where the narrative appears to meander before finding its footing once more. Additionally, while the plot strives to lay a foundation for the events leading to the original The Omen, it occasionally lapses into predictability, with some twists feeling less surprising and more like necessary steps to align with the franchise’s lore.

Another point of contention could be the film’s ending, which, although providing a satisfyingly cyclical connection to the 1976 movie, might leave some viewers desiring a more innovative departure from the expected trajectory of the franchise. However, this does not significantly detract from the overall experience, thanks in large part to the strong performances and the deftly handled thematic elements of destiny, familial bonds, and the unsettling question of whether evil is truly born or made.

The First Omen also excels in its world-building, expertly laying down the sinister groundwork that fans know will lead to the events of The Omen. It is here that the screenplay shines, offering new insights and expanding upon the universe in a way that feels both respectful to the original and fresh. The inclusion of societal tensions of the 1970s, combined with the backdrop of Rome’s storied architecture, lends an additional layer of authenticity and gravity to the story.

The First Omen is a commendable addition to the franchise that will not only satisfy long-standing fans but also has the potential to allure new viewers into its dark embrace. While it may tread familiar ground at times and navigate some pacing issues, the film ultimately succeeds in delivering a riveting, atmospheric horror experience bolstered by strong performances and a compelling narrative. Stevenson’s directorial prowess and the talented cast ensure that this prequel stands as a worthy companion to the iconic original, reminding viewers of the chilling allure that the series has always wielded. With The First Omen, the franchise’s legacy of horror is not only honored but invigorated, paving the way for future explorations of its sinister world.