Antrum: The Deadliest Film Ever Made (2018) is a horror film that cleverly blends psychological horror with a meta-cinematic experience, claiming to be a “cursed film” that causes death or misfortune to those who watch it. Directed by David Amito and Michael Laicini, Antrum presents itself as a lost 1970s horror film, supposedly banned due to its deadly nature. This urban legend-style marketing sets the stage for a deeply unsettling viewing experience.

The film follows a young boy, Nathan, and his older sister, Oralee, as they venture into a forest believed to be the gateway to hell. The siblings attempt to perform a ritual to help Nathan’s deceased dog find peace, but as they dig deeper (literally and metaphorically), they encounter disturbing visions, sinister figures, and a creeping sense of doom.
The movie’s effectiveness comes from its eerie, grainy cinematography and disturbing subliminal imagery, including hidden sigils, eerie sound distortions, and sudden unsettling cuts that make the viewer feel like they’re experiencing something truly malevolent.
- Atmosphere & Cinematography: The 1970s-style aesthetic, complete with film scratches and color degradation, enhances the illusion of authenticity.
- Psychological Horror: Instead of relying on jump scares, *Antrum builds dread through paranoia, disturbing imagery, and an eerie, dreamlike structure.
- Meta-Narrative: The idea that watching the film itself is dangerous adds an interactive fear element, making audiences question whether they should even be watching it.
- Pacing Issues: Some sections feel slow, especially in the middle, where tension could have been tighter.
- Over-Reliance on Gimmick: While the “cursed film” concept is brilliant, some may find the actual horror elements less terrifying than the legend surrounding it.

Antrum is a fascinating horror experiment that thrives on its mythos as much as its content. While it may not be the “deadliest film ever made,” it successfully unnerves viewers with its uncanny visuals, psychological horror, and meta-narrative. If you enjoy slow-burn horror with a unique premise, it’s definitely worth watching—but only if you dare.