Siren (2018)
Siren is a taut, supernatural horror thriller that builds on the unsettling story first introduced in the anthology film V/H/S. Directed by Gregg Bishop, Siren plunges viewers into an intense and eerie experience that explores the allure of mythological creatures in a modern-day setting. The movie follows Jonah and his friends on what should be a celebratory night for his bachelor party, but quickly devolves into chaos as they encounter a dangerous creature with a hypnotic, dark charm.
The story begins with Jonah and his friends searching for an unconventional bachelor party experience, leading them to an underground club with bizarre and twisted offerings. Here, they meet a mysterious girl named Lily (played hauntingly by Hannah Fierman) with an otherworldly allure. Soon, the men realize Lily is no ordinary woman but a siren—one with a seductive song and a deadly nature. Once freed from her captivity, Lily’s predatory instincts set off a nightmarish series of events, transforming the men from pursuers to prey.
Bishop’s direction amplifies the tension and horror, using unsettling visuals and dark, atmospheric cinematography to build dread. The limited use of CGI for Lily’s transformations adds a raw, visceral quality to her character, making the horror feel tangible. Fierman’s portrayal of Lily is genuinely chilling; she brings a blend of innocence and menace, creating a complex character that draws both empathy and fear.
Despite its B-movie roots, Siren stands out for its ability to balance suspense with psychological terror. The movie is relatively fast-paced, keeping viewers engaged as it moves from one disturbing encounter to the next. The horror lies not only in the siren’s deadly powers but also in the characters’ growing realization that they have awakened an ancient force they can’t control or escape. The film doesn’t rely heavily on jump scares; instead, it uses atmosphere and pacing to unsettle the audience, making Siren a refreshing entry in the horror genre.
While the plot occasionally slips into horror tropes, Siren succeeds in delivering an intense, unnerving experience for fans of supernatural horror. It’s a dark exploration of what happens when human desire crosses paths with supernatural danger, making for an unforgettable ride.