Is I Believe in Monsters Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2019)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2019, I Believe in Monsters represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Horror, Thriller category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into A father tries to force his son to undergo the same transformation he has had. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Horror, Thriller are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "A father tries to force his son to undergo the same transformation he has had. An old man steps in to kill the brainwashed father, after which he and the boy go into hiding in a cabin in the woods. But are they safe there? Orwellian short uses simple methods to make the threat of the unknown evil palpable."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. While the script occasionally leans into familiar territory, the efforts of Sem van Butselaar ensure that the emotional beats of I Believe in Monsters always land with sufficient weight. Sem van Butselaar provides a steady, reliable performance that anchors the film through its narrative shifts.

The direction by Nick Cremers is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 18 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is I Believe in Monsters truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Horror, Thriller, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 6/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, I Believe in Monsters explores the dichotomy of fear and discovery. The 2019 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Nick Cremers respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, I Believe in Monsters serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Sem van Butselaar or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, I Believe in Monsters is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.