A Quiet Place: Day One : Who would’ve guessed that John Krasinski’s leap from sitcom star to horror filmmaker would lead to one of the most successful horror franchises of the 21st century? 2018’s A Quiet Place combined thrilling creature horror with a deeply emotional family drama, propelling both Krasinski and his co-star and wife, Emily Blunt, to new heights. The film’s box office success naturally led to a sequel, A Quiet Place Part II, with Krasinski once again at the helm. This sequel not only smashed box office records in the post-COVID era but also expanded the lore of the apocalyptic, alien-infested world that the first film introduced.
Given the success of the first two films, it was only a matter of time before a prequel was announced. However, it’s understandable if you were skeptical about the idea of a prequel that doesn’t feature the beloved characters from the original films—and, yes, it even has a colon in its title. But let me reassure you: A Quiet Place: Day One proves its worth as a character-driven action film.
It broadens the scope of the franchise, showcasing the terror of the hearing-sensitive aliens as they wreak havoc in New York City. Without Krasinski and his team’s survival expertise, the characters are left to fend for themselves on day one of the alien invasion. Anchored by stellar performances and a straightforward yet compelling narrative, A Quiet Place: Day One may not be the scariest alien movie out there, but it distinguishes itself from its predecessors while remaining true to what fans love about the series.
A Quiet Place: Day One
Genre: Drama, Horror, Sci-Fi
Release Date: June 28, 2024
Director: Michael Sarnoski
Cast: Lupita Nyong’o, Alex Wolff, Djimon Hounsou
Writers: Scott Beck, John Krasinski, Jeff Nichols
Franchise: A Quiet Place
Sequels: A Quiet Place, A Quiet Place: Part II
What Is A Quiet Place: Day One About?
The film centers on Sam (Lupita Nyong’o), a cynical poet battling terminal cancer. She spends her days writing bleak poetry and reading it to her hospice support group. Her only companions are Reuben (Alex Wolff), a compassionate nurse, and her cat, Frodo. When the group takes a trip to Manhattan for a puppet show, they’re abruptly rushed back to their bus due to an emergency in the city. It’s at this moment that the aliens make their terrifying debut. What follows is non-stop chaos as the aliens descend upon one of the world’s busiest cities, filled with all the noise they crave.
But this story isn’t just about surviving an alien attack—it’s about making the most of the limited time Sam has left. Determined to reach a childhood pizza restaurant in Harlem that holds special memories, Sam embarks on a perilous journey across the city. Along the way, she meets Eric (Joseph Quinn), a law student who feels isolated in New York with his family back in England. With no one else to turn to, Eric joins Sam (and Frodo) on her quest to revisit the place that means so much to her before it’s too late. Together, they face not only the deadly aliens but also Sam’s illness and the uncertainty of their own survival.
‘A Quiet Place: Day One’ Is More About Character Than Action
At first glance, A Quiet Place: Day One might seem like it’s rehashing old ground, but it takes a different approach from the first two films. While the original A Quiet Place was a blend of horror and family drama, focusing on themes like responsibility, guilt, and sacrifice, Day One shifts its focus to a personal journey of self-discovery. Sam, who has already lost her will to live due to her illness, is suddenly forced to reassess her life when the aliens invade. Her fight is not for her family or others but for herself, to reclaim her right to live out her final days on her own terms.
Nyong’o’s Sam is a compelling protagonist, but the film truly takes off with the introduction of Quinn’s Eric. Their dynamic offers a refreshing twist: Sam, usually calm and composed, becomes the wise guide, while Eric, inexperienced and fearful, relies on her for support. A Quiet Place: Day One evolves into a character study rather than a straightforward alien horror film. Despite the trailer’s suggestion of an action-packed alien invasion, the film is more of a human drama, driven by its rich characters and their interactions.
In terms of scares and tension, Day One doesn’t quite match up to its predecessors. The first film had the advantage of novelty, and the “don’t make a sound” gimmick has lost some of its freshness. Although the performances, particularly Quinn’s, effectively convey the urgency and fear, the visceral horror of earlier scenes, like Beau Abbott’s tragic fate in the original film, is not as potent here.
The movie also doesn’t fully capitalize on its New York City setting—given that the city has already been devastated by monsters in other films, Day One feels less distinct. It could have been set in any major U.S. city and looked the same. While still an enjoyable experience, other monster films have done better with similar settings.
Joseph Quinn and Lupita Nyong’o Give Excellent Performances in A Quiet Place: Day One
The film’s greatest strength lies in its cast. Lupita Nyong’o delivers a powerful performance, ensuring that Sam’s story remains front and center amidst the chaos. She effortlessly balances Sam’s weariness with a renewed zest for life, making her quest to fulfill one last wish as gripping as the end of the world itself. Joseph Quinn, who won hearts as Eddie Munson, brings the same vulnerability to Eric, offering a rare portrayal of fear and sensitivity in a male action lead. His portrayal of the fragile human spirit and the need for connection in times of unimaginable horror is both honest and moving.
The chemistry between Nyong’o and Quinn drives the film to its bittersweet conclusion, making their unlikely bond the heart of the story. Alex Wolff and Djimon Hounsou also deliver memorable performances, adding depth to the narrative despite limited screen time.
A Quiet Place: Day One offers more insight into the human condition than the trailer might suggest. By focusing on a different type of survival story, the film sets itself apart within both its subgenre and franchise. While it may not be the best horror or action film, its compelling characters, simple yet effective script, and outstanding performances make it a standout entry in the action/alien/survival subgenres.
