Full Breakdown
A24's "Undertone": A Divisive Horror Experience
3/16/2026, 1:13:08 PM
Overview of the Film's Reception
A24's horror film "Undertone," directed by Ian Tuason, has garnered mixed reactions since its theatrical release following its premiere at the Fantasia International Film Festival. Critics have generally praised the film, awarding it a 76% score on Rotten Tomatoes, while audience reception has been notably less favorable, resulting in a 52% audience score. The film, which explores themes of isolation and paranormal mystery through the lens of a podcast, has sparked a divide between critical acclaim and viewer dissatisfaction.
Plot and Themes
"Undertone" centers on Evy (Nina Kiri), a podcaster who returns to her childhood home to care for her dying mother. The narrative unfolds through two nightly podcast recordings, where Evy and her co-host Justin (Adam DiMarco) delve into a series of eerie audio files that mirror Evy's own life experiences. The film's atmosphere is characterized by its sound design, which plays a crucial role in building tension and unease. Critics have noted that while the film effectively creates a sense of dread, it often lacks substantial payoff, leaving viewers questioning the significance of the events portrayed.
Critical and Audience Perspectives
Critics have highlighted the film's strong atmospheric elements and Kiri's performance, which captures the emotional weight of her character's situation. The cinematography and sound design have been praised for enhancing the horror experience, with some reviewers noting that the film's slow-burn approach effectively builds tension. However, audience feedback has been critical, with some viewers describing the film as "pointless" and "boring," particularly given its runtime of less than 90 minutes. This disparity in reception raises questions about the film's execution and whether it meets audience expectations for horror.
Box Office Performance and Future Prospects
Despite the mixed reviews, "Undertone" has performed well at the box office, grossing over $9.3 million domestically against a budget of just $500,000. This financial success positions it as one of A24's more profitable films, suggesting a strong turnout for a small-budget feature. Tuason has expressed interest in developing a trilogy, indicating potential for further exploration of the film's themes and mysteries.
Official Statements & Responses
A24's marketing campaign emphasized the film's sound design, promoting it as "the scariest film you’ve ever heard." This strategy appears to have resonated with audiences seeking a unique horror experience, even as critical and audience reactions diverge. The studio's support for the film reflects a commitment to innovative storytelling within the horror genre.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed out that while "Undertone" excels in atmosphere, it often falls short in narrative substance. Some reviews suggest that the film relies too heavily on tension-building techniques without delivering a satisfying conclusion. This sentiment is echoed by audience members who felt that the film's climax did not justify the buildup, leading to a sense of disappointment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Undertone is a horror film that’s more flash than substance.” — Justin Carreiro, Reviewer
- “In “Undertone,” the audio is a character itself.” — Reviewer from All Hallows Geek
In summary, "Undertone" presents a complex interplay of critical acclaim and audience dissatisfaction, driven by its unique approach to horror and sound design. As it continues to perform well at the box office, the film's future developments may address some of the lingering questions raised by its polarizing reception.
