In the world of cinema, a promising premise can sometimes crumble under the weight of poor execution, and the new horror film Lure serves as a stark example of this unfortunate phenomenon. This low-budget offering attempts to blend romance with terror but ultimately fails to deliver a compelling or believable experience for viewers.
A Premise with Potential That Quickly Unravels
The film's setup is undeniably intriguing on paper. It follows a seductive young woman who invites six eligible bachelors to her family's stately country estate for what they believe will be a weekend of romantic pursuits. However, the situation takes a dark turn when she reveals that the men are now trapped in a twisted game, described as a fusion of reality television and the infamous Saw franchise, where survival is the ultimate prize.
This concept, which could be summarised as The Bachelorette meets a femme fatale version of Jigsaw, initially sparks curiosity. Yet, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that Lure struggles to maintain the suspension of disbelief essential for effective horror storytelling.
Execution Issues and a Lack of Cohesion
One of the film's most significant flaws is its inability to commit to a consistent tone or style. From the outset, it feels disjointed, hopping between different horror subgenres without achieving a cohesive whole. Is it a folk horror tale with a man fleeing through rainy woods at night? A torture porn scenario with a character shackled to a bed? Or perhaps a chilling story about a dysfunctional family in an elegant mansion where terrible events loom?
Unfortunately, Lure tries to be all three, but the result is less a bracing mix and more akin to aimless channel surfing. This lack of focus undermines any potential tension, leaving audiences detached rather than immersed in the action.
Technical and Theatrical Shortcomings
The film's low-budget nature is evident in its production values, which often feel flimsy and unconvincing. For instance, the restraints used on the captive men—modest plastic cable ties and wispy gags—appear highly escapable, robbing scenes of their intended menace. This contributes to an overall sense that the film resembles amateur student theatre rather than a professional cinematic endeavour.
While there are fleeting moments that hint at what could have been, such as isolated scenes with interesting ideas, they are not enough to salvage the experience. Viewers never truly feel invested in the characters' fates, whether rooting for their escape or their demise, which is a critical failure for a horror film aiming to evoke emotion.
Final Verdict and Release Details
In summary, Lure is a film that squanders its potentially fun premise through weak execution, inconsistent storytelling, and a lack of atmospheric depth. It serves as a reminder that in horror, conviction and coherence are key to captivating an audience.
The film is set for release on digital platforms from 2 February, but based on this review, it may struggle to find a dedicated following among horror enthusiasts seeking more polished and engaging content.
