Few horror films manage to genuinely unsettle today’s desensitized audiences—especially those who’ve seen it all. But Undertone, the audacious feature debut from writer-director Ian Tuason, breaks through the noise with an unnerving blend of silence, sound, and psychological tension. Produced by A24, this minimalist horror tale proves that true fear doesn’t come from gore or jump scares, but from what you hear—and what you imagine lurking just beyond sight.
Story
Set entirely within a dim, aging two-story home, Undertone follows Evy Babic (Nina Kiri), a woman caring for her comatose, devoutly religious mother while hosting a paranormal podcast of the same name. Alongside her unseen co-host Justin (voiced by Adam DiMarco), Evy explores internet-born legends—cursed videos, haunted dolls, backward nursery rhymes—until a mysterious email arrives containing ten unlistened audio files. What begins as a routine episode spirals into a descent of dread as the recordings unveil a couple’s unraveling marriage, sleep-talking, and something far more sinister. The real horror? The line between fiction and reality begins to blur.
Performances
Nina Kiri delivers a quietly powerful performance, anchoring the film with vulnerability and emotional restraint. As the sole physical presence on screen, her reactions—subtle shifts in expression, pauses before speech—carry the weight of isolation and mounting fear. Adam DiMarco’s voice work adds balance, grounding the podcast dynamic with charm and curiosity. Their chemistry makes the horror feel personal, pulling viewers deeper into Evy’s increasingly unstable world.
Behind the Lens
Tuason, alongside cinematographer Graham Beasley, crafts a claustrophobic visual language defined by negative space and off-center framing. The house—reportedly Tuason’s childhood home—feels lived-in, its religious icons and outdated décor amplifying discomfort. But it’s the sound design that truly elevates Undertone. From the abrupt screech of a tea kettle to the thunderous tick of a clock, every audio cue is weaponized. In a Dolby-equipped theater, the experience is immersive and paralyzingly effective.
Final Verdict
While Undertone borrows from Paranormal Activity and Sinister, its execution feels fresh and deeply atmospheric. The slow-burn pacing culminates in a finale that may feel intense for some, but the journey is so masterfully crafted that it earns its crescendo. Rarely does a horror film rely so heavily on sound and still deliver such visceral impact. If you crave a movie that lingers in your peripheral vision long after the credits roll, Undertone is a must-watch. It opened in theaters March 13, 2026.
