The Occupant

It's not a bad film, but it's not even good for Spain, and it can certainly be better. Javier, the main character, is excellent, and Mario Casas (The Invisible Guest) has another decent role, but the film as a whole rides the wave of mediocrity and somehow can't jump out of it. The whole thing feels tired and drags on, the last 20 minutes are intense but unfortunately not as intense as they should be. The whole thing feels rather shallow, and by the finale I was not as amazed by it as I was by other Spanish films, on the contrary, I'm not likely to remember it in a month's time. It's a quality thriller that plants a small amount of paranoid psychological terror at the end, but otherwise it has nothing further to offer me and as a result I'm actually a little disappointed, as Spain has set the bar much higher in the past... (14.05.2020)

Although I hate the Spanish Inquisition, Spanish films usually work great for me. Just like this time. The film made me feel really uncomfortable, but it was intended and it worked out rather well. Watching Javier, who, in addition to attending courses, probably also got a degree in Manipulation, was quite an experience. I'm not saying it was a pleasant one, but definitely one that I'll remember. (29.05.2020)

Spain once again confidently defends its throne and throws another fine Netflix thriller at us. Critics abroad are even calling the film the Spanish Parasite. The leading actors are proven quality (Marshland and The Invisible Guest) and the director of the decent horror flick Carriers is a good attraction in itself. The protagonist, once a successful businessman, is forced to leave his expensive house as he can no longer afford it, but begins to infiltrate the family of the new tenants, with horrifying consequences. Well acted, very engaging, you have no idea what is going on until almost the end and at times the film manages to play nicely on the viewer's nerves. This is another great job and fans of Spanish filmmaking should not hesitate. Story****, Action>No, Humor>No, Violence*, Entertainment****, Music***, Visual****, Atmosphere****, Suspense***. 7.5/10. (25.03.2020)

Netflix seems to like Spain a lot. It produces one Spanish-speaking film after another, and I must say that they’re not so bad. The Occupant is a half spy, half stalker thriller you don’t really know what to think about, until the last few minutes come and it shows all of its cards in full glory. I’ve not seen a similar movie in quite some time and I was pleasantly surprised. (01.04.2020)

I also thought of comparing the movie to the Korean Parasite. But it doesn't matter, because thankfully there was no copying or spoofing, and the film follows its own original plot. The duo of Javier and Mario are acting constantly and you could cut the tension with a knife. I'll definitely keep recommending this one. (27.06.2021)