New movies regularly appeared on Netflix, even just a few months after their theatrical release. These include many horror films that enjoy great popularity even in Germany. A new horror movie on Netflix is storming the charts and currently sits at number 1.
Which film is it? On May 16, 2024, Tarot – Deadly Prophecy was released in theaters. On November 18, 5 months later, the horror film was also released on Netflix. The film seems to attract many horror fans, as it is currently at number 1 in the German Netflix charts. Recently, there was also a Netflix film in the charts.
A group of friends is on a trip at an abandoned estate. As boredom sets in, the friends search the house and find some strange things, including a creepy tarot set, which they immediately try out. This, of course, leads to terrible events.
You can watch a trailer for the film here:
Clichés and Cursed Objects
What kind of film is Tarot? Tarot is most reminiscent of films like Final Destination. In this case, it’s teenagers who are cursed. Their curses are based on the tarot cards they drew at the beginning of the film. The structure of the film then unfolds in a familiar way: interchangeable teenagers are pursued until they learn mystical backgrounds leading to a finale.
The jump scares and premises are quite familiar, and nothing new is attempted. Such things have always existed, recently with films like Truth or Dare from 2018.
There’s also no need to expect standout performances from the actors. They are okay, just clichéd teenagers. The most well-known actor is Jacob Batalon, who plays the funny stoner Paxton. He is best known as Ned Leeds, Spider-Man’s best friend in the Tom Holland films.
Apart from ghostly appearances, there are also monsters that remind one of the corresponding tarot cards.
Ripped Apart by Critics, but Number 1 on Netflix
How was the film received by critics? Upon release, the film was ripped apart by critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film has a score of only 17% based on 63 reviews. The audience response is slightly better. With over 250 reviews, the film has a mediocre 58% rating from users.
Despite the poor reception, the film was a success. With a modest budget of 8 million dollars, the film grossed nearly 50 million dollars (via Box Office Mojo).
Why is the film still popular on Netflix? Even though it sounds strange, horror films can also be comfort food. Especially when they cater to familiar clichés and narrative styles. Just like generic action films, there are also people who want to enjoy generic horror films. Those looking for light horror to watch on the side won’t go wrong with Tarot. Those who prefer harder horror films should check this out: 5 horror films rated 18 that are not for the faint of heart
