Weapons is not your typical horror movie. In fact, it doesn’t so much follow the rules as gleefully set fire to them, then nervously laugh at the flames.
From the very first scene, the film grabs you by the collar and whispers, “pay attention.” One moment you’re deep in the eerie mystery of a small-town disappearance, and the next, you’re somewhere completely different. Same mystery, new pair of eyes. The story unfolds through multiple perspectives, and each one adds a new twist, a new clue, or a fresh reason to raise your eyebrows and wonder what exactly is going on.
Starring the brilliant Julia Garner (yes, the one who stole every scene in Ozark), Weapons sees her step into a role that’s intense, layered, and just a little unhinged — in the best way. Her performance carries a strange magnetism, the kind that makes you want to trust her even when you probably shouldn’t.
What sets Weapons apart is its blend of tones. One moment you’re squirming in your seat from a perfectly timed jump scare, and the next, you’re trying not to laugh at something you really shouldn’t be laughing at. It walks the line between horror and dark comedy with surprising control. You’ll be terrified, tense, and then somehow giggling while still covering your eyes. It’s chaotic. It’s clever. It’s a little bit wrong — which is exactly why it works.
Directed by Zach Cregger, the mad genius behind Barbarian, Weapons lives in the same twisted cinematic universe but carves out its own identity. The storytelling is bold, the pacing keeps you guessing, and the mystery deepens with each new character. There’s a real connection to the cast. You’re not just watching their descent into madness or confusion — you feel it. Even the ones you probably shouldn’t like, you somehow end up siding with.
As always, no spoilers here (though I was this close to letting one slip). Let’s just say the plot thickens… then thickens again… and then takes a hard left you never saw coming. And when the final act hits, you’ll find yourself rewinding the entire film in your head thinking, “How did we even get here?”
If you’re after a film that dares to mix dread with dark humour, mystery with madness, and a dash of panic for good measure, Weapons delivers. It’s smart, unsettling, and weirdly fun. A proper horror mystery with something to say and a very entertaining way of saying it.
This movie is best watched with the lights off, preferably at 2:17 am.
Haven’t seen this yet, but your review might’ve just sold me on it. I love anything that plays with structure and tone like that. Julia Garner in something dark and off-kilter sounds like reason enough alone. Definitely adding this to my watchlist.
They saying not only horror film of the year but film of the year full stop… very recommended