Introduction
Round the Decay has brought a new cinematic experience for horror movie lovers. This is not just a usual horror flick, but a story that slowly goes under your skin. The movie is set in a small tourist town, Newport’s Valley, in which a woman returns to deal with her past. But this return becomes a nightmare for her when she uncovers a dark secret that is consuming the whole town.
Table of Contents
Plot Summary
The story begins with a young woman named Lillian. After her broken engagement, she returns to Newport’s Valley, a sleepy and peaceful tourist town. At first everything seems normal, but as night falls, it seems as if the town itself is trying to hide something. Lillian begins to have strange visions and hear eerie sounds. The locals also avoid her a lot, and any information she tries to reveal is suppressed.
As the story progresses, Lillian realizes that Newport’s Valley is not just a tourist spot, but the victim of an ancient curse. This curse slowly consumes every human being who lives there. But the question is whether Lillian will be able to escape this deadly trap or will she also become another ghostly resident of the town?
Themes and Motifs
The biggest theme of this movie is grief and the impact of past trauma. Lillian is not just dealing with a haunted town, but is also fighting her own emotions and past wounds. Isolation and paranoia are also major themes—the whole town seems to be against her, and at one point even she cannot understand what is real and what is illusion.
Another strong theme is the fear of the unknown—is the horror just supernatural or is it a psychological play? The movie constantly blurs this line, which increases the suspense even more.
Character Development
Lillian’s character is very well-developed. A tormented soul who is just looking for answers, but by the end she changes even more. Her transformation—from a vulnerable woman to someone who takes control of her fate—has been depicted very well.
The supporting characters are also quite intriguing. The local bartender, an aged historian, and a creepy old woman who constantly makes cryptic remarks—all these characters make the story even more engaging.
Visuals and Cinematography
The cinematography of the movie is top-notch. Newport’s Valley seems like an idyllic town during the day, but as the sun rises, the town becomes a haunted maze. Dark alleyways, constantly moving shadows, and an eerie fog that envelops the town—all this combines to create a visually stunning horror atmosphere.
Slow camera movements and long tracking shots add to the suspense. Some scenes are so well-executed that the framing alone gives you the chills.
Sound and Music
If the visuals are terrifying, the background score adds even more impact. The music is subtle, but as the tension builds, eerie whispers, distant cries, and sudden silences make things even more uneasy. The sound design is so immersive that you feel as if you are in the middle of Newport’s Valley.
Direction and Writing
The director has handled a slow-burning horror story quite effectively. The horror does not rely solely on jump scares, but is delivered through atmosphere and unsettling scenarios. The writing is also quite layered, with each dialogue or clue setting up a twist later. This movie reminds us of those days when horror was not just dependent on gory kills and CGI monsters, but was deeply psychological and atmospheric.
Personal Opinion
If you like atmospheric horror in which the terror gradually increases, then you will definitely like this movie. I really liked its pacing and suspense build-up. Lillian’s character also seemed quite relatable, and her journey also leaves an emotional impact. Yes, some people may call this movie slow, but if you have patience, then its climax feels worth it.
Conclusion
Round the Decay is a must-watch for those who watch horror movies not just for cheap thrills, but for a deep, psychological experience. Its story-driven approach and immersive atmosphere make it a standout horror film. If you liked horror movies like The Witch or Hereditary, then this should also be on your watchlist! Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)