Bird Box, the sci-fi thriller from Netflix, became a true phenomenon, gathering 282 million viewing hours in its first 28 days. This made it one of the most-watched films on the platform. However, its IMDb rating of 6.6 and a 64% score on Rotten Tomatoes remain rather modest.
Bird Box transports viewers into a world plunged into chaos. A mysterious threat forces people to take their own lives upon seeing it. The main character, Malorie, played by Sandra Bullock, tries to survive with two children. They embark on a dangerous journey to a promised safe haven, but the entire time, they must remain blindfolded to avoid their doom.
What makes the film so popular?
- Narrative tension. The film keeps viewers on edge at all times. Even without directly showing the threat, the fear of the unknown is incredibly strong.
- Sandra Bullock. Her performance is one of the key reasons for its success. Bullock brilliantly conveys the inner conflict and desperation of a woman fighting for survival.
- Visual effects. A high-budget production and dark atmosphere create a fully immersive post-apocalyptic world.
- Social metaphor. Many interpret the threat in the film as an allegory for modern fears: the unknown, isolation, the influence of information, and more.
Why are the ratings so low?
Despite its massive popularity, the film divided audiences and critics: • Lack of originality. Some found the plot similar to A Quiet Place, though Bird Box is based on a 2014 novel that was published earlier. • Lack of explanation. The film never reveals the true nature of the threat, leaving viewers with a sense of incompleteness. • Criticism of clichés. Certain moments feel predictable and typical for the genre.
Conclusion
Bird Box is a film that people either love or hate, but its success on Netflix speaks for itself. If you're looking for a tense thriller with a dark atmosphere, strong acting, and striking visuals, it's definitely worth watching. And with a sequel already in development, it might finally provide answers to lingering questions.
