Orphan: First Kill (2022)

In this prequel to the 2019 movie, Orphan, Leena Klammer (Isabelle Fuhrman) has escaped from an Estonian psychiatric facility and makes her way to the United States by impersonating Esther, the missing daughter of a wealthy family. When her masquerade starts to unravel, she is pitted against a mother (Julia Stiles) who will do anything to protect her family from the murderous “child” in their midst.

The problems with ORPHAN: FIRST KILL start from the opening setup for the movie. It is impossible to suspend disbelief. There is no way a security guard in a psychiatric facility who knew what Leena Klammer was like would be taken in by her seduction which allows her to escape the institution.

The movie also lacks a clear understanding of the character. Leena Klammer is supposed to be a sociopath, but her actions are motivated more by revenge than anything else. This makes her a one-dimensional villain. The acting is also not particularly good. Stiles and Fuhrman both give wooden performances. The rest of the cast is forgettable. The plot is full of holes and the ending is particularly unsatisfying.

ORPHAN: FIRST KILL is a dull and forgettable movie. It is a poorly written and directed movie that fails to deliver on its promise.

(In cinemas in Australia – check your movie guide for your local show times.)