Shiver

WOW! The most pleasant horror surprise of the year. I didn’t have it on my radar, nor did I know anything about it; only a couple of days ago I saw an internet trailer that lured to the name of Álvaro Agustín, producer of The Orphanage and Pan’s Labyrinth. So, I looked for it and watched it and I can say that I love the Spanish take on terror – I bite it hook, line and sinker and it makes me feel truly scared. Shiver is a very dark detective movie (I wouldn’t call it giallo, but it’s close to the style), with many things in common with Pan’s Labyrint, for instance, and also close to Argento’s Phenomena. The premise itself is interesting (actually, I’ve recently told myself that this topic could be great for horror), the only shortcoming is the unnecessary final twist, due to which the overall impression is not the highest. By the way, the best part is the first half hour, when you still don’t know what you’re watching, so, if you’ll take my advice, don’t try to find out what this film is about (and better yet, don’t watch the trailer). Objectively, it’s a 7 out of 10, but lovers of modern Spanish horror (like me) may add another two points for its likeability. (30.11.2008)

With all due respect to the crew, I very much prefer The Orphanage, but even though Ortiz's film does not reach the quality of the best Spanish horrors, it is still a decent above-average within the genre and is evidence that Spanish cinema currently sets the trend in this genre - similarly, as one could have said about Japan a decade ago. What diminishes the impression is the far-fetched motive of the "animal" girl and the fact that the creators reveal their cards too early for my taste. When they remain in the realm of mysterious tension from deep forests, solitude, and hints of movement in the undergrowth, it works perfectly. The cinematography and the performances, along with the dark music, can be appreciated for creating a functional atmosphere. It's a bit tacky because the flying clouds are cliché and are used almost everywhere nowadays. Otherwise, I appreciate that in this case, the screenwriter tried to avoid cheap supernatural crutches. Overall impression: 65%. (01.06.2011)

Spanish horror has been my go-to for a while now, but this one? Total letdown. A weak script, dull acting, and zero atmosphere. Shiver is easily my biggest disappointment from Spain so far. Giving it 20% for a few decent moments. (25.11.2009)