This film review and critic screening was possible thanks to access provided by Allied Integrated Marketing. This film was screened on April 19th.

“Abigail” is not just another vampire film; it’s a thrilling exploration of morality, redemption, and the consequences of one’s actions. At its core, the movie presents a seemingly straightforward premise but unfolds into a complex narrative that challenges the audience to question their assumptions about good and evil.

Alisha Weir delivers a standout performance as the titular character, Abigail, a young vampire caught in the crosshairs of criminal intrigue. Weir’s portrayal imbues Abigail with a timeless quality, blending innocence with a pragmatic survival instinct reminiscent of iconic heroines like Sarah Connor from the Terminator series. The tension escalates as Abigail faces off against a cadre of adversaries, each with their own motives and moral ambiguity.

Melissa Barrera shines as Joey, a former Army medic grappling with addiction and seeking redemption through a risky kidnapping scheme. Barrera’s portrayal adds depth to Joey’s character, highlighting the complexities of motherhood, addiction, and the desire for a second chance. However, some viewers may question Joey’s choices, wondering why she doesn’t pursue a more conventional path to redemption.

Dan Stevens delivers a compelling performance as a corrupt cop, embodying the archetype of the morally bankrupt antagonist. Stevens infuses his character with a palpable sense of menace, creating a formidable foil for Abigail and her allies. Yet, amidst the chaos, the film struggles to fully develop its supporting cast, leaving some characters feeling underutilized and two-dimensional.

Kathryn Newton’s portrayal of Sammy, a skilled hacker, adds intrigue to the ensemble, but her character’s potential remains largely untapped. Newton, known for her captivating performances in other projects, is relegated to the sidelines as the plot focuses on Abigail’s relentless pursuit of justice.

So what could make a movie like Abigail stronger? If flashbacks were added giving audiences a glimpse into Abigail’s childhood that would better provide context to why she not only became the hunter that she is but also why she is relatively OK with doing her father’s bidding at any given moment. As part of the context of the film we’re never really given an idea about how powerful a crime family her family is beyond being told that it’s a very fierce mafia arrangement. Characters like Giancarlo Esposito’s Lambert give a bit of legitimacy to proceedings to let us know that the crime family has been active for some time but beyond that we are never really informed of how much reach this group has. It is these aspects that are ignored that make Abigail a difficult film to sink your teeth into.

While “Abigail” boasts thrilling action sequences and a standout lead performance, its potential is hindered by a lack of character development and moral ambiguity. The film teeters on the brink of greatness but ultimately falls short of fully realizing its ambitions. Nevertheless, Weir’s commanding presence and the film’s high-octane energy make it an entertaining watch.

In the end, “Abigail” serves as a testament to Weir’s talent and potential as a rising star in the industry. Despite its flaws, the film offers a glimpse into a world where morality is a commodity, and survival often comes at a steep price. As Weir continues to hone her craft, audiences can expect to see her shine in future projects, solidifying her status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of cinema.