Malevolence: A Dark and Machiavellian Thriller
Published in 2011, Malice (original title: While you’re at it) is a Spanish psychological thriller film directed by Jaume Balagueró, known for his previous successes in horror cinema REC. With MaliceBalagueró abandons the supernatural to try his hand at a disturbing and realistic plot, centered on a seemingly ordinary goalkeeper, but with deeply disturbing behavior. The film, available on Prime Video, is a must-see for fans of suspense.
Malice follows César (played by the excellent Luis Tosar), a caretaker who works in a residential building in Barcelona. At first glance, César is a discreet and helpful employee, appreciated by the tenants. But behind this facade hides a sinister personalityunable to find happiness in her own life and obsessed with the idea of destroying that of others. Her attention is focused on Clara (Marta Etura), a cheerful and carefree tenant. Envious of her serenity, Cesare decides to target her to make her existence an insidious nightmare.
Instead of choosing outright violence or murder, Caesar breaks into Clara’s apartment night after night while she sleeps, hiding under her bed or interfering almost invisibly with her life. The horror of the film lies in this unsettling closeness between Caesar and his victim, as well as in the growing tension as Clara realizes that something is wrong, without being able to identify the real threat.
A chilling ending
Jaume Balagueró, through Malicedemonstrates his mastery of suspense by creating an oppressive atmosphere without resorting to bloody or supernatural devices. The film plays on the fear of intrusion, on the idea that someone can penetrate the deepest intimacy of a person without the latter being aware of it. The viewer soon finds himself a prisoner, a helpless witness to Cesare’s actions, on which sadism is based psychological manipulation rather than direct violence.
The film’s ending, as unexpected as it is terrifying, leaves an indelible memory. Malice manages to shatter the viewer’s expectations and the truly chilling ending places this film among the most impactful psychological thrillers of its time. Without revealing the details, it is certain that this conclusion raises reflections on human nature, on evil and on the possibility of not seeing the horrors that are unfolding before our eyes.
Source: Cine Serie
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