A new mystery thriller hit theaters as Drop introduces us to Violet (Meghann Fahy), a widowed mother who after a tragic encounter with her abusive husband is finally embarking back out on the dating scene. She agrees to a date at an upscale restaurant with Henry (Brandon Sklenar), a charming photographer. Their evening soon turns into a nightmare when she receives texts from a mysterious figure who threatens to kill her young son Toby (Jacob Robinson) and her sister Jen (Violett Beane) unless she kills Henry.
Tension is the most important piece of any great mystery film and Drop does a masterful job in building it throughout the film. Its premise unfolds slowly with the antagonist only revealing their intentions after a carefully crafted cat-and-mouse interaction with Violet, which allows the antagonist’s plot to feel more organic and like it’s being done by a professional and not something rushed within a fictional story. Aiding in the strength of the story is how the potential suspects for who is behind Violet’s torment are introduced. The various red herrings are presented plausibly and keep the audience guessing and therefore engaged in the film.
The result is a thriller with an old school feel that hearkens back to Hitchcock classics full of mystery and dread. The single setting is reminiscent of Rear Window not just with the fact that it takes place in one location, but how director Christopher Landon is able to shoot it in such a way that it never comes across like a stage play or feels unalive and non- cinematic despite never moving to multiple locations. Landon and director of photography Marc Spicer also frequently utilize Dutch angles as Hitchcock was famous for, adding to the inspiration from the Master of Suspense.
Drop also adds a touch of substance to the thrills in its story as Violet struggles to regain her confidence in the aftermath of the end of her marriage. The post traumatic stress of it all has left her unsure of herself and therefore hesitant to act and trust her instincts, a conundrum for someone thrust into the ultimatum she finds herself in during this first date from hell. Fahy does well in depicting a woman who is battling her trauma and self-doubt and has to find her way back to herself not just to survive the night, but continue living in general. It’s a psychoanalysis that adds a small amount of depth to the film. Drop is a thriller that would feel right at home in old Hollywood despite its modern trappings. It keeps you guessing and, more importantly, entertained throughout.
Image: Universal Pictures
