Vicious 2025: A Review of the Horror Movie on Paramount+

Vicious – Movie Review on Paramount+ (2/5)

If you’re in the mood for a new horror movie, you might be intrigued by “Vicious” on Paramount+. Directed by Bryan Bertino of “The Strangers” fame and starring Dakota Fanning, this film promises a chilling tale of sacrifice and curses. However, after watching it, I have to say it fell short of expectations.

Originally slated for a theatrical release, “Vicious” ended up on Paramount+ as a direct-to-streaming title. While this can sometimes be a good sign, in this case, it left something to be desired. The film starts off strong, largely thanks to the incredible performance by Kathryn Hunter, but unfortunately, the plot feels a bit too familiar, resembling other movies like “Tarot” or “Oddity.”

The core concept of the film revolves around a curse that demands three sacrifices from the protagonist, Polly (played by Dakota Fanning). She must give up something she hates, something she needs, and something she loves, all within a strict time limit. As the challenge progresses, Polly finds herself surrounded by eerie occurrences and must make difficult choices to survive.

While Dakota Fanning delivers a solid performance, her character in “Vicious” lacks depth and development. The film’s pacing also leaves much to be desired, with several scenes feeling overly long and unnecessary. On the other hand, Kathryn Hunter’s character adds a captivating element to the story, showcasing the actress’s talent and versatility.

Directed by Bryan Bertino, known for his work on “The Strangers,” “Vicious” aims to deliver a fresh take on the horror genre. However, despite its intriguing premise, the film falls short in execution, with repetitive shots and a lack of innovation in its storytelling.

Overall, “Vicious” may appeal to fans of supernatural horror, but be prepared for a slow-paced and somewhat predictable viewing experience. You can catch the film on Paramount+ or purchase it digitally to see for yourself.