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Summary
Horror enthusiasts are no strangers to the tropes that dominate the genre. From isolated cabins to ominous warnings ignored by naive protagonists much like the ones we see in the trailer forUntil Dawn, these elements have become staples in countless scary stories. Yet, there are times when creators manage to turn these conventions on their heads, delivering fresh, innovative takes on well-worn narratives.Until Dawnis looking to do that with the mechanics that will be central to the plot. There’s another horror movie that the video game adaptation might remind some fans of when the new flick hits theaters.
While theUntil Dawnmovieis departing from the major plot points of the interactive survival horror game it’s loosely based one, the trailer shows some clever narrative twists and genre subversions that could draw comparisons toThe Cabin in the Woods, a film that similarly dismantles traditional horror archetypes. Both properties begin by leaning into expected tropes, only to veer off in wildly inventive directions. This shared approach to storytelling makesUntil DawnandThe Cabin in the Woodsperfect companions for fans of genre-bending horror.
What Is The Cabin in the Woods?
Released in 2012,The Cabin in the Woodsis a meta-horrormasterpiece directed by Drew Goddard and co-written by Goddard and Joss Whedon. At first glance, the film seems to be a straightforward slasher story: five archetypal characters (the jock, the nerd, the virgin, the stoner, and the … flirt) venture to a remote cabin for a weekend getaway. As is tradition in such tales, the group is warned by a grizzled gas station attendant to turn back, a warning they predictably dismiss.
However, what starts as a conventional setup quickly morphs into something far more complex. It’s revealed that the cabin is part of a meticulously designed system operated by a shadowy organization. The group’s every move is manipulated to ensure they meet grisly ends, all to appease ancient gods who demand ritual sacrifices. This blending of traditional horror and satirical commentarysetsThe Cabin in the Woodsapart, earning it a reputation as one of the smartest horror films of its time.
How Cabin and Until Dawn Similarly Defy the Horror Genre
Until Dawndraws heavilyfrom classic horror tropes but uses them as tools to build a uniquely interactive experience. The game, released in 2015 by Supermassive Games, the story follows a group of young adults reuniting at a mountain lodge, only to be stalked by a mysterious threat. The game’s structure mirrors the typical slasher formula, complete with jump scares, secluded settings, and a sense of mounting dread.
Much likeThe Cabin in the Woods,Until Dawnlooks like it will be subvertingthe traditional horror tropes by having one or more of the teens that are headed to a remote house steeped in mystery die, over and over. Each time they die, they come back to life, only to be stalked by new horrors, and the only way to escape these monsters is to survive … until dawn.
Moreover,Until Dawnfeatures its own version of the archetypal gas station warning. In this case, it’s delivered by Peter Stormare reprising his role from the game, whose cryptic advice is similarly ignored. Both films revel in toying with these familiar setups, only to reveal the larger forces at play. For now, just what birthed thoselarger forces in theUntil Dawnmovieare still a mystery.
WhyUntil DawnMay Not Find Similar Success
WhileUntil Dawnsharesthematic DNA withThe Cabin in the Woods, it’s unlikely to achieve the same level of cultural impact. Several factors contribute to this disparity, starting with the fact that the trailer has already divulged the biggest “twist” in the film. That the teens who die come back to life. While it’s understandable why the filmmakers felt like they had to show what made the movie different, it’s a significant giveaway.
Additionally,The Cabin in the Woodsbenefited from a built-in audience familiar with Goddard and Whedon’s previous works,includingBuffy the Vampire Slayer. Its satirical edge and sharp commentary on horror tropes resonated broadly, even with viewers who weren’t die-hard genre fans. By contrast,Until Dawnprimarily appeals to gamers and horror enthusiasts, a more niche demographic.
By contrast, Until Dawn primarily appeals to gamers and horror enthusiasts, a more niche demographic.
Despite these challenges,Until Dawncould standout as an example of genre-defying horror. Its willingness to play with expectations and prioritize and interesting twist not seen in horror movies that often could ensures its legacy as a unique and influential title. For fans ofThe Cabin in the Woodsseeking a similarly inventive take on horror,Until Dawnlooks like it could offer a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
