The Damned

The slow-burn approach to horror has proven to be an effective means of winding the tension and terror until what’s often an unforgettable conclusion. Thordur Palsson’s period-chiller The Damned is another example from this genre that proves that less is more when it comes to establishing a haunting atmosphere. However, this tale of tragedy and guilt stumbles during its final stretch, resulting in a disappointingly flat ending.

Starring Odessa Young as the recently widowed Eva, the horror unfolds in an isolated Icelandic fishing village during the 19^th century. With their food supplies running low, the townsfolks’ situation is already looking grim when they spot the wreckage of a foreign ship sinking nearby. After they reluctantly decide not to aid the crew (a moral dilemma made worse when they later scavenge the wreck for supplies), terror descends on the community when they believe that a Draugr has come seeking revenge.

Palasson makes full use of the harsh winter setting to establish a tone that’s as cold and oppressive as the freezing weather. Outside the welcoming warmth of the lively pub where the villagers drink and dance, every shadow that looms just out of reach of the dim lamplight takes on a menacing presence. Combined with eerie longshots accompanied by a score reminiscent of The Witch, and The Damned soon becomes a chilling watch.

As some strange happenings gradually wind the suspense, the locals are tormented by paranoia and guilt, most of which manifests at night. It’s in these scenes where the film deploys its most unsettling imagery, punctuated with smartly placed jump cuts in lieu of conventional jump scares. Young’s solid performance holds the action together as the plot creeps towards the third act.

However, it’s at this point where the suspense starts to lose its grip. What started as a slow and methodical pace turns into a sprint during the final 20 minutes or so. Not only does this result in some plotlines being hurriedly wrapped up in unsatisfying ways, but it also leads to a conclusion that feels both underbaked and predictable.

The Damned is an exceedingly well-crafted period horror, which excels in delivering its icy atmosphere. Despite its sinister visuals and compelling lead performance, a hastily put-together finale stops this film from becoming another slow-burn genre gem.

Andrew Murray

The Damned is released nationwide on 10^th January 2025.

Watch the trailer for The Damned here: