The First Omen (2024)

Review Team

4/5

The First Omen, directed by Arkasha Stevenson, emerges as a gripping addition to the horror genre. The film's premise, centring on a young American woman drawn into a web of darkness in Rome, is both intriguing and unsettling. Stevenson masterfully builds tension throughout, utilising atmospheric ci ... Show more >> The First Omen, directed by Arkasha Stevenson, emerges as a gripping addition to the horror genre. The film's premise, centring on a young American woman drawn into a web of darkness in Rome, is both intriguing and unsettling. Stevenson masterfully builds tension throughout, utilising atmospheric cinematography and a haunting score that complements the narrative's exploration of faith and evil. The lead performance captivates, portraying a character torn between belief and fear, making her journey resonate deeply with the audience. While the film does tread familiar ground in terms of horror tropes, its unique approach to the theme of evil and the strong emotional undercurrents elevate it above standard fare. Overall, The First Omen is a thought-provoking and chilling experience that is likely to satisfy horror aficionados and provoke reflection long after the credits roll. Show less

Editor Team

3.5/5

The First Omen is a film that tries hard to blend the sacred with the sinister, and for the most part, it succeeds. Set against the backdrop of Rome, the story plunges you into a world where faith is tested and darkness lurks around every corner. The lead actress delivers a solid performance, captur ... Show more >> The First Omen is a film that tries hard to blend the sacred with the sinister, and for the most part, it succeeds. Set against the backdrop of Rome, the story plunges you into a world where faith is tested and darkness lurks around every corner. The lead actress delivers a solid performance, capturing the struggle between her devotion and the creeping dread that envelops her. There are moments that genuinely chill, and the cinematography is lush, making the city itself feel like a character in its own right. However, some plot points feel a bit predictable, and there are times when the pacing falters. Still, if you’re a fan of horror that makes you think, The First Omen is definitely worth a watch, especially for its atmospheric qualities and the moral quandaries it presents. Show less