Adam Wingard's latest, 'Onslaught', plunges viewers into a relentless action-horror scenario, showcasing a director confident in his genre sensibilities. The film, released on 2 September 2026, quickly establishes its premise: a skilled Army sniper must protect her daughter from a rogue squad of genetically engineered super soldiers. While the core concept and storyline are often noted for their familiarity, drawing comparisons to classic genre fare, the execution largely compensates for any lack of originality.
Wingard's direction is a standout, frequently praised for its slickness and ability to evoke a chilling, John Carpenter-esque atmosphere. The visual style is consistently effective, creating a lean and mean aesthetic that serves the film's high-octane sequences. However, the writing and screenplay occasionally struggle with cohesion, with some critics pointing to a 'scattered' narrative and subplots that do not fully develop.
The dialogue, while functional, tends to be direct and lacks subtlety, fitting the grindhouse tone but not offering much depth. Adria Arjona leads the cast with a compelling performance, effectively channelling a rugged, determined antihero. The ensemble cast, including Dan Stevens and Rebecca Hall, contributes to the film's overall strength, delivering solid character work without significant criticism.
The production design and editing contribute to the film's polished feel, ensuring the action is clear and impactful. Furthermore, the background sound and music, particularly Matt Pusti's synth-heavy score, are effective in building tension and enhancing the horror elements, successfully evoking a retro vibe. Despite its narrative shortcomings and reliance on established tropes, 'Onslaught' is widely regarded as a fun, wild, and pulpy genre entry.
It offers a visceral, engaging ride that, for many, makes it a worthwhile watch for fans of action and horror, particularly those who appreciate Wingard's distinctive style.
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