Released on Netflix in September 2021, No One Gets Out Alive is a British horror film directed by Santiago Menghini. Loosely based on Adam Nevill’s 2014 novel, the film intertwines supernatural terror with the very real fears and challenges faced by undocumented immigrants in the United States. At its core, the movie is not just about ghosts and monsters but about survival, identity, and the haunting consequences of exploitation.
Plot Overview
The story follows Ambar (Cristina Rodlo), an undocumented Mexican immigrant who relocates to Cleveland after the death of her mother. In dire need of accommodation, she rents a room in a dilapidated boarding house owned by Red (Marc Menchaca). Soon after moving in, Ambar experiences unsettling occurrences—ghostly apparitions, eerie sounds, and disturbing visions. She learns that the house harbors dark secrets, including a history of ritualistic sacrifices linked to a mysterious stone box brought from Mexico. As Ambar delves deeper, she uncovers the sinister truth about the house’s past and its malevolent inhabitants
Themes and Social Commentary
While No One Gets Out Alive is rooted in horror, it also serves as a poignant commentary on the immigrant experience. Ambar’s journey highlights the vulnerabilities of undocumented individuals—fear of deportation, exploitation, and the constant struggle for survival. The boarding house, with its hidden dangers, symbolizes the precarious situations many immigrants find themselves in, where the promise of a better life often turns into a nightmare.
The film also touches upon themes of identity and belonging. Ambar’s connection to her mother and her heritage plays a crucial role in her fight against the supernatural forces in the house. Her struggle is not just against external horrors but also an internal battle to retain her sense of self amidst overwhelming adversity.
Cinematic Elements
Direction and Atmosphere
Santiago Menghini’s direction effectively blends atmospheric tension with moments of genuine horror. The pacing, while deliberate, builds a sense of dread that culminates in a chilling climax. The film’s cinematography, led by Stephen Murphy, uses lighting and framing to create a claustrophobic environment, enhancing the sense of entrapment felt by Ambar
Performances
Cristina Rodlo delivers a compelling performance as Ambar, capturing the character’s vulnerability, determination, and resilience. Her portrayal adds depth to the film, making Ambar’s plight both relatable and heartbreaking. Marc Menchaca’s portrayal of Red adds an unsettling layer to the narrative, blurring the lines between victim and perpetrator.
Sound Design and Music
Mark Korven’s score complements the film’s eerie atmosphere, using dissonant tones and minimalist compositions to heighten tension. The sound design, with its creaks, whispers, and distant noises, immerses the audience into the haunted world of the boarding house
Critical Reception
No One Gets Out Alive received a mix of reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an approval rating of 68% based on 22 reviews, with an average rating of 5.5/10. Critics praised the film’s atmosphere and performances, particularly Rodlo’s portrayal of Ambar. However, some felt that the film’s pacing was uneven, and the supernatural elements, while intriguing, were not fully developed
Monica Castillo of RogerEbert.com highlighted the film’s exploration of real-life horrors faced by immigrants, noting that it “explores the real-life horror of how undocumented immigrants are exploited using a conventional horror movie construct” .
Conclusion
No One Gets Out Alive stands out in the horror genre by intertwining supernatural elements with a poignant social narrative. It challenges audiences to confront not only the fear of the unknown but also the very real fears faced by marginalized communities. Through its atmospheric tension, compelling performances, and thought-provoking themes, the film offers more than just scares—it provides a mirror to societal issues that demand attention.
In a genre often criticized for its lack of depth, No One Gets Out Alive proves that horror can be both terrifying and meaningful. It reminds us that sometimes, the most haunting monsters are the ones we create through our actions and indifference.
