Disappear Completely: A Descent into Sensory Horror

Directed by: Luis Javier Henaine  

Starring:Harold Torres

Rating: ★★★★☆

Netflix’s latest horror release, “Disappear Completely,” is a spine-chilling masterpiece that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the classics of the genre. With its festival circuit acclaim, including a notable run at Fantastic Fest, this film is already generating significant buzz—and for good reason. Directed by Luis Javier Henaine, “Disappear Completely” is a nightmarish blend of horror that recalls the finest works of John Carpenter and Wes Craven.

Plot Summary:

The film centers on Santiago (Harold Torres), a morally ambiguous photographer whose relentless pursuit of the perfect shot often leads him to cross ethical boundaries. Santiago’s life takes a horrifying turn when he stumbles upon a gruesome scene involving a body seemingly devoured by rats. Capturing this macabre image sets off a series of unexplainable events that thrust him into a downward spiral. Cursed, Santiago begins to lose his senses one by one, plunging him into a sensory-deprived nightmare.

Characters and Performances:

Harold Torres delivers a tour-de-force performance as Santiago, embodying the character’s flawed nature and growing desperation with compelling intensity. Torres’s portrayal is so immersive that viewers are pulled into Santiago’s terrifying journey, experiencing every moment of his escalating panic and dread. His ability to convey the loss of his senses and the accompanying mental unraveling is nothing short of mesmerizing.

Atmosphere and Visuals:

The film’s cinematography, crafted by Glauco Bermudez, is visually striking from the outset. Bermudez establishes a sharp visual language that gradually disintegrates as Santiago’s world crumbles. The descent into sensory loss is depicted with a brilliant use of film’s visual and auditory capabilities. The sound design, especially in the final act, is award-worthy, perfectly capturing the horror of Santiago’s diminishing senses. The result is a profoundly immersive experience that leaves the audience feeling as if they, too, are losing touch with reality.

Themes and Screenplay:

Henaine’s screenplay, while venturing into some explanatory territory in the final act, primarily focuses on the psychological horror of sensory deprivation. The script cleverly ties Santiago’s sensory losses to his moral shortcomings, creating a compelling narrative about the consequences of one’s actions. The film explores themes of perception and reality, challenging the audience to question what they see and hear, much like Santiago.

Conclusion:

“Disappear Completely” is a masterful addition to the horror genre, reminiscent of Carpenter and Craven’s finest works. Henaine’s direction and Torres’s outstanding performance create a harrowing journey that is both visually and emotionally gripping. The film’s ability to immerse the audience in Santiago’s sensory-deprived nightmare is a testament to the power of cinema. While the script occasionally veers into unnecessary explanations, the overall experience remains profoundly unsettling and thought-provoking.

For horror enthusiasts and casual viewers alike, “Disappear Completely” offers a unique and terrifying descent into madness that will linger long after the credits roll. It’s a film that doesn’t just entertain but also pushes the boundaries of the genre, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking a genuinely chilling experience.

So, if you’re ready to experience a slice of nightmare fuel, turn off the lights, turn up the volume, and let “Disappear Completely” pull you into its horrifying embrace. You’re welcome.