Noche Buena

About This Movie

Noche Buena is quite the unsettling experience, really. This 2019 entry into the horror-thriller realm plays on the isolation of the holidays, with a man celebrating Christmas Eve alone. You can feel the tension build as he discovers he’s not as alone as he thought. The atmosphere is thick, almost suffocating at times, which adds to the creeping dread throughout the film. The pacing is deliberate, letting the suspense marinate before things take a turn. There’s something to be said about the practical effects used; they have a raw quality that amplifies the horror, making the whole experience feel tangible. The performances, especially from the lead, are grounded and relatable, making the horror hit harder when everything starts to go sideways.

Explores themes of solitude during the holidays.Utilizes practical effects for a grounded feel.The pacing allows for a slow build-up of tension.