The Decline (2020)

Review Team

4/5

The Decline is a captivating psychological thriller that examines the depths of human survival instincts. Directed by Patrice Laliberté, the film follows Antoine, a father seeking to prepare for an impending disaster through a survivalist training course. The film's strength lies in its ability to c ... Show more >> The Decline is a captivating psychological thriller that examines the depths of human survival instincts. Directed by Patrice Laliberté, the film follows Antoine, a father seeking to prepare for an impending disaster through a survivalist training course. The film's strength lies in its ability to create tension and unease, as the characters' motivations and relationships are put to the test. The performances are commendable, particularly that of the lead, who brings a palpable sense of desperation to his role. The cinematography effectively captures the isolation of the setting, enhancing the film's overall atmosphere. While the narrative can feel slow at times, the build-up is rewarding, leading to a climax that is both shocking and thought-provoking. The Decline is a must-watch for those who appreciate films that challenge their perceptions of safety and trust. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

The Decline is an interesting ride, but it ultimately stumbles a bit in execution. The film sets up a gripping premise: a survivalist training gone awry, which sounds thrilling. However, while the initial setup is engaging, the pacing drags, and some character arcs feel underdeveloped. The performan ... Show more >> The Decline is an interesting ride, but it ultimately stumbles a bit in execution. The film sets up a gripping premise: a survivalist training gone awry, which sounds thrilling. However, while the initial setup is engaging, the pacing drags, and some character arcs feel underdeveloped. The performances are decent, but they don't quite reach the emotional heights one might expect from such a tense scenario. The film does a good job of building suspense, but the payoff feels somewhat lacking. If you’re in the mood for a psychological drama that explores fear and survival, you might find something to appreciate here. Just don’t go in expecting a full-throttle thriller; it’s more of a slow burn that leaves you pondering rather than gasping. Show less