Movie Monday Mentions: Five Nights at Freddy’s

This is a movie for the Fans!

I got to go see this movie on opening night and I have to say I don’t think there is any better way to experience this movie. The audience was engaged the entire time and brought extra life to a movie that maybe wouldn’t otherwise have had such an impact. Others I have talked to have echoed the same sentiment.

Five Nights at Freddy’s is based on the video game franchise of the same name. In the movie, we follow Mike as he becomes a nighttime security guard at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizzeria. The place was closed after an accident and Mike soon discovers why. The animatronics that were used to entertain kids come to life and are more than they seem. While trying to make some money he is also trying to relive a constant dream he has about the kidnapping of his younger brother. each night he tries to go back to find more details. Only to discover that there are connections behind his childhood loss and recent career change.

I have only experienced a very basic amount of the video game lore that this movie is based on and it does try to explain relevant details to those who don’t know. Although, there were times when others in the theatre were freaking out and I had no idea why. This movie is riddled with fanservice which is not a problem if you are a fan of the franchise but as a casual enjoyer, or those with limited to no knowledge, you might not get the most out of the movie. Although the plot is interesting there are inconstancies and too many questions that get asked and not answered for there to be a solid story on its own. which has led to some of the critical backlash. Despite some fans loving this movie, some have criticized it for deviating too far from the original.

Visually the movie looks good. They used a lot of practical effects which gives the animatronics a real look to them and the movie did numbers on its opening weekend. Setting itself up for a potential sequel? Only time will tell but if you are interested check out the trailer below.

-Jared Gomes