A new horror movie from Netflix has received a lot of buzz. Tarot. This thrilling, mysterious fantasy reached the Top 10 on the platform very quickly and attracted fans of all levels.
However, since there are so many choices, it brings up the main question: Is this series something you’d want to spend your time streaming? Let’s look closely at these details and support your decision.
1. The Rapid Rise of the Company
Tarot was shown on Netflix on August 3, 2024, upon its theatrical release on May 3.
Even though the film made less than $50 million at the box office compared to its $8 million cost, it attracted many more viewers on Netflix.
The fact that it became one of the most-watched shows so quickly shows how powerful Netflix is and how people around the world love accessible horror.
The quick rise of the movie into the Top 10 is a sign that people are really interested in it.
2. The main idea is shared, but this time with a supernatural factor
The plot of Tarot fits the usual pattern seen in teen horror films. A group of friends who have been close since their college days plans to spend a birthday out in the Catskills at a secluded mansion.
While searching, they happen upon an old and curiously disturbing tarot deck in the cellar.
Even after being warned or just because they were curious, they agreed to perform readings for one another.
It definitely breaks the most important rule in tarot: never use a stranger’s deck.
The kids’ innocent games soon turn into a battle for existence. Everyone gets a warning for the future, and what happens is truly shocking.
Individuals pass away, looking oddly similar to what their cards stated, one right after the other. Everyone left has to hurry and untangle the curse as they fight to stop the chaos.
Harriet Slater, Adain Bradley, and Jacob Batalon, who has played Ned Leeds in the Spider-Man series, are part of the Mysterious Benedict Society cast.
A combination of known and upcoming actors can be seen in this ensemble.
3. A Divide in Opinion: Critics vs. Audiences
Opinions about Tarot have widely differed. Most critics did not like the film. Many critics on Rotten Tomatoes say the movie lacks imagination and is a copy of other works.
The movie is accused of putting too much emphasis on sudden shocks, easy-to-see story lines, and uninteresting heroes. Many people said the movie didn’t contribute much new to the series and took too many ideas from the Final Destination movies.
Professional critics found that the film’s format was a major fault.
Yet, it is interesting that audience ratings are not quite the same as what the critics think. Although there are criticisms, Tarot’s ratings by users appear to be far more favorable than the ratings given by critics.
Many thought it was a pleasant horror movie to watch when looking for something easy-going. They seemed to focus on the creative deaths, even though the plot was often similar.
In my opinion, the movie was made to frighten those who seek predictable fright and a simple supernatural thriller, as opposed to trying anything fresh.
Because of these contrasts, we can assume that the target audience is mostly satisfied and meets its expectations.
4. Is It Really Horrifying, or Is the Fear Only for a Moment?
Anyone searching for horrifying cinema based on psychological insights might not find it in Tarot. There are a lot of jump scares used in the film.
They are capable of giving viewers some quick and minor jolts. But they are not always able to make us fear or feel unsettled.
While turning the tarot cards into monsters is well thought out, the results sometimes end up looking generic since they are mostly accomplished with CGI.
If you are used to horror, you could predict all the scares and maybe find the film less scary than it is meant to be. For those who haven’t seen many horror movies or want a lighter experience, Tarot can be a great starter. It’s created for excitement in the moment, rather than for lasting suspense.
5. The Final Card: Should You Watch It?
All things considered, do you think Tarot is worth watching?
Watch it if you love to watch classic teen horror movies. It’s a night for a feel-good movie that goes perfectly with popcorn.
You are happy when the story follows a certain pattern, and you enjoy the thrill of a good scare. You prefer watching movies with striking monster appearances in supernatural thrillers.
This show will keep you entertained without requiring much of your brain. Enjoy it in a lighthearted way.
Skip it if your idea of horror is related to stories that deeply disturb, shock you, or make you think hard. Jump scares happen too often for your liking. You want stories and characters that have many layers and depth.
You seek a truly horrifying and iconic movie experience. If you are hoping for another grand horror film, perhaps this isn’t the one.
Netflix subscribers have embraced Tarot, making it a hit series. Although critics may not love it, the movie speaks to a big chunk of the audience.
If you’re hoping for a thrilling yet uncomplicated experience with supernatural horror, Tarot may just be what you are looking for.