Phenomena (2023)

Review Team

4/5

Phenomena emerges as a compelling exploration of the supernatural through the lens of three middle-aged women. Set in Madrid during the late 1990s, the film weaves together themes of friendship, fear, and the unknown. The narrative is anchored by strong performances from Gloria, Paz, and Sagrario, w ... Show more >> Phenomena emerges as a compelling exploration of the supernatural through the lens of three middle-aged women. Set in Madrid during the late 1990s, the film weaves together themes of friendship, fear, and the unknown. The narrative is anchored by strong performances from Gloria, Paz, and Sagrario, who each bring depth to their characters. Director Carlos Therón skilfully balances tension with moments of levity, creating a film that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The cinematography captures the eerie atmosphere beautifully, enhancing the story's mystical elements. While some may find certain plot points predictable, the emotional arcs of the characters elevate the film beyond typical genre fare. Overall, Phenomena is a satisfying watch for those who appreciate a mix of supernatural thrills and character-driven drama. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Phenomena tries to blend horror and heart, but does it hit the mark? Set in 1998 Madrid, it follows three women on a quest to uncover paranormal events, led by the somewhat bumbling Father Pilón. While the premise is intriguing, the execution feels uneven at times. The performances are solid, with t ... Show more >> Phenomena tries to blend horror and heart, but does it hit the mark? Set in 1998 Madrid, it follows three women on a quest to uncover paranormal events, led by the somewhat bumbling Father Pilón. While the premise is intriguing, the execution feels uneven at times. The performances are solid, with the leads bringing their characters to life, but the pacing drags in places, leaving the audience yearning for more suspense. The film definitely has its scary moments, but it sometimes relies on clichés that can feel predictable. The emotional undertones are there, but they don’t always land effectively. In the end, Phenomena is an interesting watch, especially for fans of supernatural tales, but it doesn’t quite rise to the occasion as a standout in the genre. Show less