In a world shrouded with home invasions, "The Strangers: Chapter 1" begins a prequel trilogy to the cult classic series "The Strangers" originally kicked off in 2008. The series, widely praised for its insidious portrayal of masked home invaders, has gradually blossomed into a cult hit. The invasions usually kick off with a late-night inquiry – “Is Tamara home?” And inevitably, they do not end well for the residences who answer.
In 2018, the sequel "The Strangers: Prey at Night" was released, further cementing the franchise's appeal. Now, six years later, the world is introduced to “The Strangers: Chapter 1” - the first of three planned installments directed by acclaimed movie-maker Renny Harlin.
The end of “Chapter 1” piques the viewer's curiosity as it indicates that the upcoming entries will extend the narrative introduced, rather than presenting isolated stories. The familiar storyline revolves around a couple attacked by triple-masked invaders in a secluded cabin. The only variance this time is that the victims, a couple named Maya and Ryan, are strangers to each other. Their dire predicaments may lead viewers to question whether it's merely a random act of violence or an entire town's conspiracy.
"Chapter 1" doesn't provide all the answers, leaving much unresolved, including the origin of the Man in the Mask, Dollface and Pin-Up Girl. According to the end credits, the Man in the Mask seems replaced by a new figure named Scarecrow.
Despite the similarities with its predecessors, "Chapter 1" brings a fresh take on the franchise under the direction of Harlin, veteran in the horror genre. Fans of the series will be intrigued by the familiar narrative beats, while also appreciating the prequel's potential intrigue. The narrative offers an unflinching glimpse into senseless violence, withholding their backstory or real names to maintain the intense mystery and appeal of the series. Unfolding with a haunting familiarity, "Chapter 1" teases that the franchise’s well is far from empty and promises more Malevolent surprises in the subsequent installments.
