Examination of Realism in 'Dont Breathe' (2016): A Critical Analysis

Introduction

Despite its critical and commercial success, 'Dont Breathe' (2016) invites scrutiny regarding its portrayal of realism. This analysis delves into several aspects that strain believability, examining blind abilities, home security measures, physical confrontations, canine behavior, plot twists, and survival skills within the context of the film.

Blind Mans Abilities

The film's portrayal of the blind character Norman Nordstrom, played by Stephen Lang, presents him with near-superhuman senses. While blind individuals often have heightened senses to compensate for their lack of sight, the film exaggerates these abilities to a level that seems implausible. Norman's ability to detect intruders and navigate through the house with ease stretches the limits of human sensory perception.

Home Security

The blind man's house is depicted with an array of sophisticated and effective security measures. These include hidden cameras, smart alarms, and intricate traps designed to thwart intruders. However, in reality, such elaborate setups would be far from universal, particularly in more suburban areas where security budgets are often more limited.

Physical Confrontations

The showcase of physical confrontations between the burglars and Norman highlights a notable disconnect from reality. Despite the burglars being untrained in combat, they manage to hold their own against Norman, who is portrayed as having combat experience. This scenario may not align with real-world dynamics where a well-trained combatant would likely have an advantage over unskilled individuals.

The Dog

The inclusion of a trained attack dog adds to the film's tension, but the dog's behavior, especially its ability to remain silent before attacking, seems exaggerated. In reality, dogs often bark when sensing intruders, and even highly trained attack dogs may not remain completely silent until ordered to attack. This depiction stretches the boundaries of believability for many viewers.

The Plot Twist

The film's climactic plot twist, involving a shocking revelation about the blind man's past and his motivations, introduces an element of disbelief. While plot twists can be effective in thrillers, the specific circumstances and the blind man's extreme actions may test the viewer's suspension of disbelief. This element can impact the audience's perception of the story's plausibility.

Survival Skills

The film shows the burglars displaying a surprising level of resilience and survival skills in life-threatening situations. Their ability to recover quickly from injuries and make critical decisions under pressure can feel unrealistic, especially considering the high levels of fear and adrenaline involved in such circumstances.

Escape Routes

The layout of the house and the escape routes available to the characters may not align with conventional home designs. The characters often find paths and solutions that would not realistically exist in a typical house, adding an unrealistic edge to the film's tension and plot development.

While these elements contribute to the film's suspense and horror, they do push the boundaries of realism. As a critical analyst, one must weigh the entertainment value against the perceived plausibility of these scenarios, ultimately deciding whether the film's supernatural elements contribute to or detract from its overall impact.