Devoured

Devoured (2012) is a psychological horror movie directed by Greg Olliver, starring Marta Milans, Kara Jackson, and Bruno Gunn. The story follows a Mexican immigrant, Lourdes (Marta Milans), who works as a kitchen assistant in a restaurant in New York City. Lourdes is struggling to make ends meet and living in a small apartment with her young son. She is also burdened with a tragic past that haunts her every day.

The movie begins with Lourdes settling into her new job at a Mexican restaurant called La Cocina. There she meets her colleagues, including her boss, Carlos (Bruno Gunn), and her friend, Anne (Kara Jackson). Lourdes is a hard-working employee and determined to earn enough money to make a better life for her and her son. However, she soon realizes that the job is not what she expected. Carlos is an unpleasant and exploitative boss who constantly makes demands on Lourdes, and the other staff are unfriendly and rude.

As Lourdes's work becomes more demanding and stressful, she starts to experience strange occurrences in the restaurant. She hears unexplained noises and sees unsettling visions. She also discovers that there is something sinister happening in the basement of the restaurant, which Carlos forbids her to enter.

Despite her growing fear, Lourdes is determined to uncover the truth about what is happening in the restaurant. With help from Anne, Lourdes tries to investigate the basement and the strange occurrences, but she is met with unexpected challenges and obstacles. She soon realizes that she is not just fighting against supernatural forces but also facing the ghosts of her past.

Devoured is a slow-burning horror movie that relies on its atmospheric tension and its character-driven narrative. The movie is an exploration of immigration, exploitation, and grief. It presents a harrowing picture of life as an immigrant in New York City and the hardships that come with it. The excellent cinematography captures the gritty and claustrophobic atmosphere of the restaurant and its surroundings.

The movie's pacing is slow, but it serves the film's purpose to create a sense of dread and hopelessness. The story is more about the psychological and emotional journey of the protagonist, Lourdes, than about jump scares or gore. Marta Milans delivers an outstanding performance as Lourdes, depicting her character's vulnerability and strength with equal artistry. Kara Jackson and Bruno Gunn offer solid performances as well, supporting the movie's themes and creating a believable ensemble.

Overall, Devoured is a well-crafted horror movie that offers a unique perspective on the genre. It's not for everyone, especially those who are looking for fast-paced action or traditional scares, but it's worth watching for its atmospheric tone and its nuanced character development. It's a movie that lingers with you long after the credits roll, leaving you with a haunting sense of unease. If you are a fan of character-driven horror movies with a touch of social commentary, then Devoured is a must-see.