Introduction
Horror fans with a taste for the eerie and unsettling will likely remember the 2009 film “Orphan,” which introduced us to the enigmatic and terrifying character of Esther, portrayed brilliantly by Isabelle Fuhrman. Now, more than a decade later, we are treated to a long-awaited sequel, “Orphan: First Kill,” which continues the bone-chilling tale of Leena Klammer, the disturbed young woman with a penchant for murder.
Reprising a Sinister Role
In “Orphan: First Kill,” Isabelle Fuhrman returns to reprise her signature role as Esther, or rather, as Leena Klammer. The film employs impressive CGI and camera trickery to allow Fuhrman to embody the character once more, despite the significant time that has passed since the original film’s release. Leena, still disguised as the doll-like Esther, remains as hauntingly eerie as ever, and Fuhrman’s performance exudes peculiar calmness and malice that feels unsettlingly fresh.
A Clever Twist on True Events
Drawing inspiration from real-life events, “Orphan: First Kill” cleverly incorporates elements from the 2012 documentary “The Imposter.” Leena, after escaping from an asylum in true Hannibal Lecter fashion, seeks a new family to infiltrate. She selects her prey by scouring online accounts of missing girls, settling on a target she can convincingly pass for. This leads her to the gothic mansion of artist Allen Albright, portrayed by Rossif Sutherland, and his surprisingly tough wife, played by the inspired casting choice, Julia Stiles.
An Unpredictable Gothic Tale
As Leena infiltrates the Albright family, the film takes on a gothic, eerie atmosphere reminiscent of classic Hammer horror films. The tension escalates as Leena navigates through the dynamics of the household, with some family members accepting her as the long-lost daughter, while others harbor hidden hostility. The atmosphere evokes a sense of mystery and dread, drawing parallels to the 1963 Hammer film “Paranoiac.”
Gruesome and Refreshing
Directed by William Brent Bell, known for his work on “The Boy” movies and the underrated “Wer,” “Orphan: First Kill” may adhere to some horror sequel conventions, with its regular dose of gruesome murders. However, the film sets itself apart by infusing a level of cleverness and unpredictability into the narrative. Fuhrman’s portrayal of Leena ensures that the character remains a formidable and chilling presence throughout the film.
Conclusion: A Deserving Horror Sequel
“Orphan: First Kill” stands as a testament to the enduring power of its antagonist, Leena Klammer, portrayed masterfully by Isabelle Fuhrman. The film successfully builds on the legacy of the original “Orphan” while introducing new elements that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. For horror aficionados seeking a clever, unpredictable, and gruesome experience, “Orphan: First Kill” delivers, leaving us yearning for more sequels to explore the twisted mind of Esther in the future.
