"Drop" Movie Review: A Fun, Hitchcock-Inspired Thriller

"Drop" Review: Meghann Fahy Shines in a Hitchcockian Thriller Christopher Landon has become a reliable name for genre fans. Known for blending horror with other genres, he consistently delivers enjoyable films. From slasher versions of time loops and body-swap comedies to zombie-filled adventures, Landon's movies are often a fun ride. His latest film, "Drop," takes inspiration from Hitchcockian thrillers, offering a modern spin on classic suspense.

While comparing a Blumhouse movie to Hitchcock might seem far-fetched, especially one involving smartphones, Landon has a history of exceeding expectations. "Drop" cleverly uses technology to create suspense.

## A Date Night Gone Wrong: The Plot of "Drop" Violet (Meghann Fahy), a widowed single mother, is trying to get back into the dating scene. Her first date, with the charming Henry (Brandon Sklenar), takes place at a fancy Chicago restaurant. However, the evening quickly turns sinister when Violet starts receiving threatening messages and images on her phone.

The anonymous messages escalate, informing Violet that a masked gunman has infiltrated her home and threatens her son and sister. She is given a horrifying task: kill her date without raising suspicion. If you're looking for realism, "Drop" might not be for you. The plot has some holes, but Landon's confident direction keeps you engaged, preventing you from overthinking the implausibilities.

 Fahy's Star Turn and Clever Use of Technology Thankfully, "Drop" avoids making the smartphone the main . The film finds creative ways to display text messages without relying excessively on the phone screen. Violet, played by Meghann Fahy, is the true star. Fahy embodies the kind of actress reminiscent of classic genre films, instantly likable and far from a typical damsel in distress. She's intelligent but makes mistakes, kind-hearted yet willing to do anything to protect her family.

Fahy's charisma is a major reason why "Drop" works. Sklenar also delivers a great performance as the handsome and slightly mysterious Henry, creating compelling chemistry with Fahy. Jillian Jacobs and Chris Roach's script acknowledges similar setups in films like "Non-Stop" and "Red Eye," embracing a sense of self-awareness and even incorporating some lighthearted, meme-inspired moments without becoming overly comedic.

Supporting Cast and Overall Impression The humor in "Drop" doesn't solely rely on the memes Violet receives. The supporting characters, like her snarky sister and an aspiring actor at the restaurant, provide moments of levity. Landon keeps the scenes concise, preventing any character from overstaying their welcome. The movie's simplicity is a key part of its appeal, with twists that feel natural and a script that neatly ties up all loose ends. "Drop" is the perfect date-night movie, designed to elicit gasps, laughter, and audience interaction. While it may not revolutionize the thriller genre, it's a surprisingly enjoyable film, especially considering the inconsistent quality of recent Blumhouse productions. Christopher Landon continues to demonstrate his skill in crafting engaging genre films, and "Drop" might just be his best work yet. "Drop" premiered at the 2025 SXSW Film Festival and opens in theaters on April 11.