Come Play
Movie Trailer
Release Date
October 30, 2020
Genre
Horror, Thriller
Cast & Crew
- Azhy Robertson as Oliver
- Gillian Jacobs as Sarah
- John Gallagher Jr. as Marty
- Winslow Fegley as Byron
- Jayden Marine as Mateo
Director
Jacob Chase
Other Movies Director is Known For
- Larry (2017) (Short Film)
- The Four-Faced Liar (2010)
Producer
Andrew Rona, Alex Heineman
Writer
Jacob Chase
Budget
$9 million
Production Company
Amblin Partners, Reliance Entertainment, The Picture Company
Running Time
96 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
PG-13
Content Advisory
- Frightening and intense scenes
- Mild language
- Violence
Movie Story
Come Play is a chilling horror tale that centers around Oliver, a young boy with autism who struggles to communicate with the world around him. Isolated by his condition, Oliver turns to his smartphone and tablet for solace, where he unwittingly invites a sinister entity into his life. The creature, known as Larry, is a mysterious figure that preys on loneliness, emerging from the screens of Oliver’s devices to manifest in the real world.
As the story progresses, Oliver’s mother, Sarah, and his estranged father, Marty, are drawn into the terrifying ordeal when they realize Larry’s intentions are far more malevolent than they could have ever imagined. The family must come together to protect their son from this relentless force that seems unstoppable and omnipresent. The film delves into the deep fears of isolation and the dangers of technology, exploring the thin line between the digital and real worlds.
The tension builds as Larry’s presence becomes more invasive, leaving the family trapped in a nightmare where trust and togetherness are their only hopes for survival. The movie’s eerie atmosphere is amplified by its clever use of visual effects and sound design, creating an experience that is as psychologically unsettling as it is physically frightening.
Special Effects
Come Play utilizes special effects to create the haunting presence of Larry, blending practical effects with CGI to bring the creature to life. The effects are subtle yet effective, contributing to the overall tension and horror of the film without overwhelming the narrative.
Box Office Performance
The film grossed over $13 million worldwide, a modest success given its budget, and was particularly notable for its release during the COVID-19 pandemic, when theater attendance was significantly lower than usual.
Filming Locations
- Los Angeles, California, USA
Notable Quotes
- “He just wants a friend.” – Oliver
- “Once you let him in, he will never leave.” – Sarah
Behind-the-Scenes
The character of Larry was inspired by a short film titled Larry (2017), which was also directed by Jacob Chase. The short was expanded into the full-length feature film Come Play, keeping the same eerie tone and concept.
Awards
- Nominated for the 2021 Fangoria Chainsaw Award for Best Creature Effects
Final Verdict
Come Play is a modern horror film that successfully taps into contemporary fears surrounding technology and loneliness. It delivers a solid blend of psychological tension and supernatural horror, making it a compelling watch for fans of the genre. While it may not reinvent the wheel, its execution and emotional depth provide a satisfying and spooky experience.
IMDb Rating
5.7/10