The First Omen Reviews

Directed by Arkasha Stevenson (Brand New Cherry Flavor), The First Omen is about a young Catholic postulant (Nell Tiger Free, Game of Thrones) who is sent to Rome during her postulancy (a period just before nuns take their vows). During this time, she teaches at an orphanage which houses young women and girls. While there, she doesn't just find events that strengthen her faith, but ones that test it as well. She is approached by Father Brennan (Ralph Ineson, The Witch) who urges her to look into one of the older girls at the orphanage, Carlita. She might be the lynchpin to a conspiracy bent on bringing forth the antichrist. The film also stars Sonia Braga (Shotgun Wedding), Tawfeek Barhom (Cairo Conspiracy), Maria Caballero (The Girl in the Mirror), Bill Nighy (Love Actually), and Nicole Sorace (Summer Limited Edition).This entry into the Omen franchise is a decent prequel. There are a couple of well-done and clear homages, which fans of the series will welcome. Not only do they hark back to the first-released Omen movie, but they also heighten both moments in graphic detail without feeling as though the scenes were shoehorned in. They are an excellent example of a tribute. Fans will recognize what is coming, but even as the scene plays out, there is still a moment of surprise.The imagery is memorable. Viewers may find a few scenes or stills imbedded in their minds for quite some time. The parallel between the spiders and Margaret's hair, purposefully strewn around her head when she lies down will be an image associated with this film for quite a while. There are also scenes which deliberately make the audience feel as discombobulated as Margaret.Nell Tiger Free does an outstanding job in her captivating portrayal of Margaret, who is quite the complicated character. She radiates innocence at times, while also hinting at a complex and turbulent childhood. The audience equally roots for her while also having a nagging feeling that something is amiss-because something is. There are many pieces of the puzzle which need to be found and fitted in their proper places. The question is, where are those pieces and where are the holes.The film is fairly predictable. Some of the foreshadowing moments are a little too telling. But even if moviegoers anticipate the ending (it is a prequel after all, so Damien must be born), some films are all about the journey and not necessarily about the outcome. While pacing isn't a big issue with The First Omen, it might feel a little slow for those who are used to watching slasher or action movies. That being said, there are a couple scenes that feel like they go on for a beat or two too long.Demonic and possession movies have their own flavor in the horror genre. They lend themselves to being religious in nature, which some moviegoers might find problematic. That being said, others who have grown up in a religious household might find these movies scarier because of their background. So, consider this a sacrilege-trigger-warning.The First Omen leans into its Omen heritage in that it feels like a 70's era horror movie. In fact, it almost gives off Exorcist vibes in its graphic detail and uncomfortable blasphemous themes. After leaving the theater, audience members may feel the urge to watch the original Omen again. In which case, the movie would achieve what most prequels should aim for. Filmgoers and fans of the franchise who are less squeamish will find this bold prequel to be an artful and disturbing look at religious zealots, the good and evil in everyone, and the dangers of utilitarianism (the idea that an act is redeemable and recommended if it is done for the good of majority, over what's good for one). While not necessary, the immersion of the theater experience enhances the feeling of unease.