The First Omen

Movie Trailer:

Release Date:
April 5, 2024

Genre:
Horror, Thriller, Supernatural

Cast & Crew:

• Nell Tiger Free as Katherine Thorne
• Ralph Ineson as Father McKenna
• Bill Nighy as Dr. Abel
• Julia Butters as Sophie
• Alex Wolff as David Thorne
• Charlotte Gainsbourg as Sister Agnes
• Richard E. Grant as Cardinal Di Laurentis
• Dakota Fanning as Sarah

Director:
Arkasha Stevenson

Other Movies Director is Known For:

• Television Work: Legion (2017), Channel Zero (2016)
• Feature film directorial debut

Producer:

• David S. Goyer
• Keith Levine
• John Davis

Writer:

• Tim Smith
• Arkasha Stevenson
• David S. Goyer

Budget:
Estimated $40 million

Production Company:
20th Century Studios, Phantom Four Films, Davis Entertainment

Running Time:
1h 59m

Languages:
English

Maturity Rating:
R

Content Advisory:

• Intense horror scenes
• Supernatural violence
• Disturbing imagery
• Strong language

Movie Story:
The First Omen (2024) serves as a chilling prequel to the iconic 1976 horror film The Omen, exploring the origins of the malevolent force that would later manifest in Damien Thorn. Set decades before the events of the original film, The First Omen delves into the dark history surrounding the Thorne family and the sinister prophecy that would eventually give rise to the Antichrist.

The story centers on Katherine Thorne (Nell Tiger Free), a young woman who, along with her husband David (Alex Wolff), moves into an isolated estate in the English countryside. Unbeknownst to them, the property has a long and terrifying history linked to an ancient prophecy of the Antichrist’s coming. As Katherine begins to experience strange and disturbing events, she starts to unravel the horrifying truth about her family’s connection to the prophecy.

Father McKenna (Ralph Ineson), a priest with knowledge of the occult, is drawn to the Thorne estate after receiving a series of visions that suggest a great evil is about to be unleashed. He attempts to warn Katherine, but his efforts are hindered by Dr. Abel (Bill Nighy), a charismatic yet enigmatic psychologist who is convinced that Katherine’s experiences are the result of trauma rather than supernatural forces.

As the story progresses, Katherine discovers that she is pregnant, and the terror intensifies. Disturbing nightmares, unexplained phenomena, and a growing sense of dread consume her, leading her to question her own sanity. With the help of Sister Agnes (Charlotte Gainsbourg), a nun who has dedicated her life to fighting the forces of evil, Katherine uncovers ancient texts that reveal the true nature of the unborn child she carries.

The film builds towards a terrifying climax as Katherine and David must confront the dark forces that threaten to destroy them. As the truth about their unborn child comes to light, they must make an unimaginable choice that could determine the fate of the world. The First Omen is a psychological and supernatural horror film that explores themes of fate, faith, and the eternal struggle between good and evil.

Special Effects:
The First Omen relies on a mix of practical effects and CGI to create its unsettling atmosphere and horrifying imagery. The film’s visual effects team focused on creating realistic and disturbing supernatural events that heighten the tension and fear throughout the story. The use of shadow and light, along with haunting sound design, enhances the film’s eerie tone, making the audience feel as if they are constantly on the edge of a nightmare.

Box Office Performance:
As a prequel to one of the most iconic horror films of all time, The First Omen is expected to attract a significant audience, particularly horror fans and those familiar with the original Omen series. The film’s release in October positions it perfectly for the Halloween season, likely contributing to strong box office performance. Its connection to the original film, combined with its modern take on classic horror elements, is likely to appeal to both older fans and a new generation of viewers.

Filming Locations:

• London, England, UK
• Prague, Czech Republic
• Tuscany, Italy
• Dublin, Ireland

Notable Quotes:

• “The signs have always been there, hidden in the shadows, waiting for the right moment.” – Father McKenna
• “Evil is patient. It waits for the right soul to corrupt.” – Dr. Abel
• “This child is not a blessing. It’s a curse.” – Sister Agnes
• “Some doors, once opened, can never be closed.” – Katherine Thorne

Behind-the-Scenes:
Director Arkasha Stevenson, known for her work in horror television, brings a fresh perspective to The First Omen, infusing it with psychological depth and a slow-burn tension that builds throughout the film. The production focused on creating a sense of dread and inevitability, with carefully crafted set pieces and a score that echoes the chilling atmosphere of the original Omen. The cast, led by Nell Tiger Free, immersed themselves in the story’s dark themes, with particular attention to the emotional and psychological toll of the characters’ experiences.

Final Verdict:
The First Omen (2024) is a haunting and atmospheric prequel that successfully expands on the lore of the original Omen film. With strong performances, particularly from Nell Tiger Free and Ralph Ineson, and a narrative that delves into the origins of one of horror’s most terrifying prophecies, the film is a must-see for fans of supernatural horror. It delivers both psychological terror and visceral scares, making it a standout entry in the genre.

IMDb Rating:
6.5

Image Source: by Courtesy of 20th Century Studios