The 2024 horror movie Tarot, directed by Spenser Cohen and Anna Halberg, aimed to bring a fresh spin to supernatural thrillers. However, its attempt to mix supernatural terror, character-driven drama, and campy humor resulted in polarized opinions among audiences and critics. With a plot rooted in the chilling world of tarot cards and fate, the movie treads a fine line between novelty and familiar tropes. Here, we’ll explore its strengths, weaknesses, and why it might intrigue or disappoint viewers.
A Unique Concept with a Familiar Twist
At its core, Tarot explores the mysterious power of a cursed tarot deck. The movie follows a group of college students who stumble upon the cards during a getaway in the Catskills. The deck’s readings predict their fates, which are carried out in horrifyingly precise ways. This premise evokes memories of Final Destination, where characters face seemingly inescapable deaths tied to their choices and actions.
The film’s use of tarot cards to weave themes of destiny, free will, and cosmic justice is creative. However, it struggles to break free from comparisons to similar horror franchises. The reliance on predictable archetypes—a skeptic, a reluctant hero, and a comic relief character—undermines its originality.
Visuals and Cinematography: A Creepy Atmosphere
One of Tarot’s highlights is its atmospheric production design. The cursed deck itself is an artistic masterpiece, with detailed engravings and an aura of foreboding. The movie excels in using lighting and shadows to heighten tension, especially in scenes where the characters face their inevitable fates.
The Catskills’ isolated, wooded setting adds an eerie layer, emphasizing the group’s vulnerability. Cinematographer James Kniest employs creative camera angles and close-ups to amplify the suspense, particularly during the death sequences. However, while visually compelling, the film fails to maintain a consistent mood, frequently veering between serious horror and unconvincing humor.
Character Development: A Missed Opportunity
For a horror movie driven by the dynamics of a close-knit group, Tarot falters in developing its characters. The protagonists feel more like clichés than multidimensional individuals, which weakens the emotional impact of their fates.
Critics have pointed out the superficiality of the characters’ relationships. Moments of grief and fear come across as unconvincing, largely due to the stilted dialogue. While actors like Harriet Slater (Haley) and Jacob Batalon bring moments of charm, their performances are hampered by poorly written interactions that fail to convey genuine camaraderie or tension.
Plot Execution: Ambitious but Flawed
The central storyline—a group of friends grappling with the reality of their fated deaths—had significant potential. However, the film’s execution leaves much to be desired. It oscillates between genres, attempting to be a supernatural thriller, a campy horror-comedy, and a psychological drama. Unfortunately, this lack of focus dilutes its impact.
Some moments, such as the dramatic reveal of the tarot cards’ power, are captivating. Yet, the pacing suffers due to an overabundance of exposition and awkward transitions between key scenes. The film’s climax, meant to tie together its themes of destiny and resistance, feels rushed and unsatisfying.
The Music and Sound Design: A Mixed Bag
The movie’s sound design effectively builds tension during its death sequences, with unsettling background scores that mimic the sinister tones of the tarot cards themselves. One standout moment is a scene set to the haunting song I Saw You by Joseph Bisara and Daniel Knox, which elevates an otherwise predictable death sequence.
However, the overall soundtrack lacks cohesion. Some musical choices clash with the film’s darker elements, detracting from its intended mood.
Strengths That Keep It Watchable
Despite its flaws, Tarot isn’t without merit. Its unique premise and the use of tarot symbolism add an intriguing layer for viewers interested in mysticism and horror. The film also touches on themes of inevitability and choice, which resonate with audiences on a psychological level.
Furthermore, the death sequences—though unevenly executed—offer moments of genuine suspense. These scenes, combined with the film’s artistic visuals, provide glimpses of what Tarot could have been with stronger storytelling.
Critics’ Verdicts: A Divisive Reception
Critics have largely criticized Tarot for its lack of originality and uneven tone. One reviewer called it “an ill-conceived spin on Final Destination” that fails to embrace its potential as either a serious horror or a campy parody
. Another review highlighted its “AI-generated dialogue” and poorly developed character relationships, describing the interactions as emotionally hollow
.
Despite these critiques, some viewers appreciated the film’s visual style and willingness to explore unconventional ideas. Its $8 million budget was used effectively in creating striking imagery, even if the storytelling didn’t match up.
Conclusion
Tarot is best suited for horror enthusiasts who appreciate experimental takes on familiar genres. While it may disappoint those seeking a tightly woven narrative, its creative premise and atmospheric visuals might appeal to fans of supernatural thrillers.
For casual viewers, however, its flaws may overshadow its strengths. Whether Tarot achieves cult status in the years to come remains uncertain, but its attempt to explore the darker sides of fate and destiny leaves an impression—if only a fleeting one.
FAQs
Is Tarot suitable for fans of Final Destination?
Yes, but with tempered expectations. While it borrows elements from Final Destination, it lacks the sharp execution and cohesive storytelling of the franchise.
Does Tarot rely heavily on jump scares?
No, the film focuses more on atmospheric tension and psychological horror, though it does include a few jump scares.
Is the film appropriate for younger audiences?
Tarot is rated R for intense scenes and themes of death. It’s not suitable for children or younger teens.
Are there any standout performances?
While Harriet Slater delivers a strong performance as Haley, the script limits the depth of her character.
Will there be a sequel to Tarot?
As of now, no sequel has been announced. The film’s mixed reception might impact its chances for a follow-up.