5 Reasons Why I Liked The Five Nights At Freddy’s Movie Much More The Second Time
Released in 2023, the Five Nights at Freddy’s movie was met with a mixed response from fans and critics alike. Based on the popular survival horror video game franchise, the film followed a group of teenagers who must survive five nights at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza, an abandoned amusement park filled with terrifying animatronic beings. While some viewers expressed disappointment with the movie, I found myself enjoying it much more on my second viewing. Here are the top 5 reasons why:
1. First-time jitters
Hindsight is 20/20, and my second viewing of the movie benefited from the knowledge of the story and its twists and turns. Without the built-up anticipation and uncertainty that comes with watching a horror movie for the first time, I was able to focus more on the elements that make the film succeed. The tension and atmosphere were more palpable without the distraction of trying to figure out what was going to happen next.
2. Appreciation for the animatronics’ design
The animatronics in the Five Nights at Freddy’s franchise have always been a key part of their appeal. On my second viewing, I gained a new appreciation for how the animatronics’ designs were translated to the big screen. The execution of their movements, and the way they interacted with the environment and actors, was more impressive in hindsight. The animatronics’ presence added depth and complexity to the plot, making them more effective at evoking fear in the audience.
3. Understanding of the cinematography
The Five Nights at Freddy’s movie boasted impressive cinematography, employing a range of techniques to create a sense of claustrophobia and discomfort. On my second watch, I noticed the camerawork and lighting better, which enhanced the experience. The use of mirrors, reflections, and creative framing added to the surreal atmosphere, making the jumpscares more effective than ever.
4. Focus on character development
The movie’s characters undergo significant development throughout the course of the film, a process that I appreciated much more on my second watch. The relationships between the teenagers, particularly the budding romance between the two lead characters, added an extra layer of emotional depth to the story. The development of the characters made them more relatable and interesting, making it easier to become invested in their struggle to survive.
5. Recontextualized themes
The Five Nights at Freddy’s franchise explores themes of trauma, addiction, and the consequences of playing with forces beyond our control. On my first watch, I was somewhat oblivious to these themes; on my second, they became more apparent. Appreciating the movie’s nuanced exploration of these themes humanized the characters and increased the sense of unease and dread. The thought-provoking themes, combined with the effective frights, made the viewing experience even more satisfying and memorable.
In conclusion, my second viewing of the Five Nights at Freddy’s movie was a vastly superior experience to my first. By avoiding the initial novelty and uncertainty, I was able to appreciate the smaller details that make the film stand out. For fans of the franchise and horror movies in general, I highly recommend giving this movie a second chance; you might just find it to be a thrilling adventure that will leave you sleeping with the lights on.