Downton Abbey star’s ‘bonkers’ horror film keeps fans hooked | Films | Entertainment

A ‘revolting’ film that unveils a fresh horror icon, set to be adored by fans, has been subtly added to Netflix.

The 2024 horror flick Abigail now graces the streaming giant’s vast catalogue. Its cast boasts British actor Dan Stevens, famed for his past roles in Downton Abbey, The Guest and Beauty and the Beast.

He is accompanied by Kathryn Newton of Big Little Lies and Ant Man and the Wasp Quantumania fame, alongside Breaking Bad’s Giancarlo Espisito, Department Q star Matthew Goode and Alisha Weir, who previously played the lead role in Matilda the Musical.

Melissa Barrera, who featured in the latest Scream instalments, also stars, reports the Mirror.

According to the synopsis of Abigail, the plot kicks off when a band of aspiring criminals abduct the 12 year old ballerina daughter of a formidable underworld figure.

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They hold her hostage in a secluded mansion, tasked with overseeing her overnight as they await their $50 million windfall.

However, their scheme begins to fall apart as the group of kidnappers start to dwindle. One by one, they each begin to realise, to their escalating terror, that they are trapped inside with no ordinary little girl.

The film has achieved an impressive 84% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with numerous critics applauding its fresh approach to a well-worn genre. One reviewer wrote: “Devilishly disgusting and effortlessly humorous, this bonkers bloodbath gives us a brand new monster icon to fall in love with.”

Meanwhile, another declared: “Abigail’s unique premise reinvents the vampire movie, with innovation as fresh as What We Do in the Shadows. Bearing razor-sharp fangs, Abigail delivers a delicious dance with death.”

Audiences proved equally enthusiastic as the critics, with one viewer simply declaring: “Heart-pounding, freaking hilarious, gore fest!” Another remarked: “Abigail is a fun and thrilling movie that mixes horror, mystery, and dark humour in a very entertaining way. The story is interesting and keeps you hooked with unexpected twists. The acting is strong, especially the young girl, who gives a creepy and memorable performance.”

They added: “The movie has good visuals, scary moments, and a fast pace that never feels boring. It balances fear and fun really well. If you like horror movies with a fresh idea and good suspense, Abigail is definitely worth watching.”

Another viewer shared their thoughts online: “Abigail is as fun as you can get with a modern horror movie. With a perfect mixture of blood and comedy, this is a well balanced, well orchestrated film. Perfectly casted and perfectly paced, with some great fighting scenes, this movie is enjoyable for anyone that is a fan of vampires and horror movies in general. Great, unique film!”.

Whilst one fan declared: “One of the best vampire films! Melissa Barrera is an amazing actress, and knows how to bring a horror movie to life. If you loved her in the Scream films, then I definitely recommend seeing this one.”

Abigail is steaming on Netflix.

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