The much anticipated follow up to Cloverfield comes in the form of a rather obscure thriller with nods and winks to it’s predecessor.  Starring Mary Elizabeth Winstead and John Goodman, 10 Cloverfield Lane is a “locked in the cellar” horror film full of questions, mystery and connections to the original Cloverfield.

10 Cloverfield Lane is an 2016 horror film, it is produced by Bad Robot Productions, and distributed by Paramount Pictures.

The horrors of isolation.

After years of waiting a continuation to Cloverfield has been released, though not an exact continuation, the connection is made incredibly clear as the film goes on its hour+ run time. Featuring a new cast, camera style, and story, 10 Cloverfield Lane is just as good if not better than its predecessor.

John Goodman & Mary Elizabeth Winstead kill it in 10 Cloverfield Lane.

THE GOOD: The slow pacing to the harsh reality of 10 Cloverfield Lane’s story is most certainly its strongest quality. With twists and turns focusing on the psyche of Goodman’s character and the realism behind these characters predicament is sold well throughout the film. While the alien plot admittedly felt like it was just there, if you didn’t expect it to be there merely for the Cloverfield connection, then you’re expected to be disappointed, but those who know better won’t be bothered.

Suspense, Cloverfield style.

THE BAD: As previously stated the alien plot just felt like it was there, though most people will understand that it was purely for the connection to Cloverfield.

10 Cloverfield Lane continues the franchise to great expectations.

OVERALL THOUGHTS: While the change in direction and style may raise a few eyebrows, 10 Cloverfield Lane’s slow building pace and story makes the new changes feel almost necessary. Fans of the alien storyline won’t have much to look forward to beyond canon reasons in this one, but everything else about the film is definitely in the feel of the Cloverfield franchise.  Otaku Dome gives 10 Cloverfield Lane an 85 out of 100.