'Phenomena' Review: Netflix horror film unravels a deeply disturbing tale of haunted antique shop

Based in 1998 Madrid, the movie revolves around the story of the Hepta group, which specializes in investigating paranormal activities
PUBLISHED APR 14, 2023
(L-R) Gracia Olayo,  Belén Rueda, Emilio Gutiérrez Caba and Toni Acosta in 'Phenomena' (Netflix)
(L-R) Gracia Olayo, Belén Rueda, Emilio Gutiérrez Caba and Toni Acosta in 'Phenomena' (Netflix)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Netflix is getting creative with its choice of movies and TV shows, and we are getting excited about everything precious that has been lined up in the streaming service HQ. While we are here waiting, let's talk about the latest offering by the streaming giant, 'Phenomena', originally called 'Fenómenas' in Spanish, a horror-comedy movie that has been the talk of the town lately. The Spanish horror movie has everything from platonic bonds to great jump scares.

The cast includes some of the best-known actors in the Spanish film industry, with some of them making their Netflix debut with this title. While we are super excited to share our thoughts about the movie, we are awaiting more international movies like this one to widen our horizon and make the cinephile in us happy. The cast is led by Gracia Olayo, Emilio Gutiérrez Caba, and Toni Acosta in the center of the story, with other supporting actors enhancing the film. 

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A remarkable tale set in Spain

Based in 1998 Madrid, the movie revolves around the story of the Hepta group, which specializes in investigating paranormal activities, but as time passes, the spark of the group flourishes, as members start to lead a different life away from ghosts and demons. But, one day the leader of the group, or "father" as the group calls him, goes alone to investigate a haunted antique shop and gets attacked by something paranormal. To understand the culprit behind the father's attack and solve the mystery of the haunted antique shop, three women lead the investigation to find the demon on the other side of reality. 

Ivan Massagué and Toni Acosta in 'Phenomena' (Netflix)
Ivan Massagué and Toni Acosta in 'Phenomena' (Netflix)

Great storyline with a gripping plot

The point that needs to be made, is that this movie is led by very well-known Spanish actors, who are doing a phenomenal job at it. It is quite refreshing to see actors who have been on the stage for quite some time, deliver a mindblowing performance, all while giving space for each other's character to breathe. The color scheme is astonishing, with retro music that keeps you on your toes. The movie competes to become a horror movie that feels like it takes a different stance on the entire genre while keeping it hearty with continuous sarcasm. The acting sequences are raw and feel real. The film delivers the story of friendship and of the bond people share with each other. It is greatly added into the movie how every character comes together to save a person they really care for. All in all, the movie is outstanding, and a perfect choice for your weekend movie night. 

(L to R) Belén Rueda, Fran Cantos, Toni Acosta and Gracia Olayo in 'Phenomena' (Netflix)
(L to R) Belén Rueda, Fran Cantos, Toni Acosta and Gracia Olayo in 'Phenomena' (Netflix)

'Phenomena' is now available exclusively on Netflix. 

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