Blumhouse Productions released another film this year, titled “Evil Eye” on Amazon Prime. It has everything you expect from a Blumhouse movie; it's suspenseful, contains a bit of the supernatural, and a dash of horror. However, "Evil Eye" at its core is about the relationship between a mother and daughter. Spoiler warning for those who haven't watched the movie yet!
Premise
Pallavi’s mother, Usha, wants nothing more than to set up her daughter with an Indian man. But Pallavi is tired of Usha’s matchmaking attempts, as well as her belief in the “evil eye.” The evil eye is a superstitious curse put upon an unaware person, causing misfortune. Amulets and charms with an eye protect against it, which Pallavi and her mother have.
When Pallavi meets Sandeep, a handsome Indian man, she thinks her mother will finally be happy. However, Usha suspects that Sandeep is the reincarnation of her abusive ex-boyfriend who died thirty years ago. She believes that the evil eye put a curse on her and her child.
We begin to see flashbacks of Usha's past. Her ex-boyfriend stalked her and was violent. Sandeep shares similarities with Usha's ex-boyfriend, making Usha suspect his true identity. While the audience was supposed to be kept in suspense about this, it was obvious Usha was correct. Otherwise, there'd be no story!
Abusive Relationships and the Importance of Support
Sandeep seems nothing but friendly. He pays for Pallavi's apartment and encourages her to quit her job to pursue writing. But Usha sees these things as warning signs. Sandeep is trying to isolate Pallavi from her job, friends, and family. Abusers cut people out of their significant other's lives to gain control.
I liked how Usha wasn't portrayed as the stereotypical controlling mother who cares only about her daughter getting married. Instead, Usha wants to protect her daughter so she doesn't experience the abuse she did. The film also shows how important a support system is for victims of abuse. Usha tells Pallavi that she loves her no matter what.
In the hospital, Usha also assures Pallavi that none of what happened is her fault. She claims that they are strong and will teach their descendants to look out for men like Sandeep. I’m glad this is the movie’s last message, as it tells victims not to blame themselves for the abuse they experience.
No Surprises But Still Satisfying
The plot twist wasn’t a surprise. Usha’s flashbacks made it obvious that Sandeep was her boyfriend reincarnated. It wasn’t until the third act that this was confirmed, but the news felt lackluster. However, I realized that this was intentional. The movie is more about unraveling the trauma Usha went through rather than Sandeep's identity. So, the lack of surprise didn’t matter that much to me.
Conclusion
While this isn’t the scariest or thrilling movie Blumhouse has produced, it’s worth the watch. It's about a mother and daughter escaping their past and present abusive relationships. Even though the end alludes that Sandeep will return, I am confident the two women will help protect their future descendants.
We hope you check out "Evil Eye" on Amazon Prime, it is sure to get you sitting on the edge of your seat!
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Want our review of other Blumhouse movies? Read The "You Should Have Left" Trailer Will Leave You Afraid of Your Own Shadow and "The Lie" Review - A Thrilling Ride.
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