Renowned horror author Stephen King recently took to Twitter to share his glowing review of Night Swim, a recent horror flop that has garnered mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. Directed by Bryce McGuire, marking his feature directorial debut based on his 2014 short film, Night Swim follows a family who discovers that their backyard swimming pool is haunted by a malevolent force. The cast includes Wyatt Russell, Kerry Condon, Amélie Hoeferle, and Gavin Warren.
King’s endorsement of Night Swim came in the form of a tweet where he likened the film to a “lost, low-budget Steven Spielberg film from Spielberg’s early period.” He specifically referenced Spielberg’s breakout television film, Duel, and remarked that Night Swim felt like it belonged “after Duel but before JAWS.” King praised the film’s simple yet effective story, highlighting memorable moments such as “the cat on the diving board” and “those creepy bunny slippers.”
Spielberg’s Duel, released in 1971, is widely regarded as a cult classic and one of the greatest TV movies ever made.
While King’s positive review may have generated some buzz for Night Swim, the critical reception has been largely unfavorable. The film holds a dismal 22 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics citing a weak premise unable to sustain a feature-length film. Audience reactions were only slightly better, with a 43 percent approval rating.
Despite its lukewarm reception, Night Swim managed to gross $53 million at the box office against a $15 million budget following its release in theaters on January 5.
FAQ
What is Night Swim about?
Night Swim follows a family who moves into a new suburban home and discovers that their backyard swimming pool is haunted by a malevolent force.
Who directed Night Swim?
Night Swim was directed by Bryce McGuire, marking his feature directorial debut based on his 2014 short film of the same name.
Who stars in Night Swim?
The cast of Night Swim includes Wyatt Russell, Kerry Condon, Amélie Hoeferle, and Gavin Warren.
What did Stephen King say about Night Swim?
Stephen King praised Night Swim on Twitter, comparing it to a “lost, low-budget Steven Spielberg film from Spielberg’s early period” and recommending it to his followers.
How was Night Swim received by critics and audiences?
Night Swim received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. While Stephen King’s endorsement generated some buzz, the film holds a dismal 22 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics citing a weak premise. Audience reactions were slightly better, with a 43 percent approval rating.
What is the budget and box office performance of Night Swim?
Night Swim had a budget of $15 million and grossed $53 million at the box office following its release in theaters on January 5.