Passenger is the kind of horror film that creeps under your skin slowly before fully tightening its grip on you. What begins as a seemingly straightforward road-trip thriller gradually transforms into something stranger, darker, and unexpectedly emotional. Under the direction of André Øvredal — whose growing horror résumé already includes The Autopsy of Jane Doe, Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, and The Last Voyage of the Demeter — the film proves once again that he understands atmosphere better than most modern horror directors.
One of the film’s strongest qualities is its unique storytelling structure. Instead of focusing solely on the main cast, the movie occasionally shifts perspectives to show brief glimpses into the lives of other van campers and travelers along the road.
But the road itself becomes a character. Endless darkness, isolated highways, and strange roadside encounters create an eerie sense of dread throughout the film. As a Malaysian viewer, it is impossible not to think of the haunting legends surrounding Karak Highway while watching this. The atmosphere strongly evokes those familiar local folklore stories — especially with the appearance of a mysterious yellow stranded car, which instantly recalls the urban legend of the Yellow Volkswagen of Karak. That subtle cultural parallel makes the experience even more unsettling for local audiences.
Visually, the film is packed with fresh and inventive horror sequences. One standout scene involving projector screens is genuinely memorable and unlike anything seen in recent mainstream horror. Øvredal avoids relying purely on cheap scares; instead, he builds tension through clever staging, sound design, and timing. When the jumpscares arrive, they feel earned and effective rather than predictable.
The visual effects are also impressively polished. The supernatural elements look believable without becoming overproduced, and the film’s lore-building is detailed enough to feel immersive while still maintaining mystery. Combined with strong performances from the cast, the emotional stakes remain grounded even as the horror escalates into more surreal territory.
Now, if you’re up for the road-trip of a lifetime, hop on! 🙂 But remember, the worst thing you can do, is stop.
*Cover image via Paramount Pictures