Modern horror filmmaker Mike Flanagan has carved out a significant niche in the genre with a collection of chilling hits that continue to haunt audiences long after the credits roll. Now, horror enthusiasts can access one of Flanagan’s standout films, “Oculus,” for free on Tubi, providing a prime opportunity for both new and returning viewers to experience this edge-of-your-seat thriller.
Released in 2013, “Oculus” features a talented cast that includes Karen Gillan, known for her role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Annalise Basso, Brenton Thwaites, Rory Cochrane, and Katee Sackhoff. The film tells the haunting tale of two siblings, Kaylie and Tim Russell, who reunite a decade after their parents’ brutal murders. They believe a malevolent supernatural force inhabiting an antique mirror, the Lasser Glass, is responsible for their family’s tragedy. As they grapple with their dark past, the siblings find themselves ensnared in the mirror’s sinister influence, leading to a suspenseful unraveling of both their relationship and the dark mystery that surrounds them.
“Oculus” is widely regarded as a pivotal work in Flanagan’s career, having garnered both audience and critical acclaim. With a budget of just $5 million, it achieved a noteworthy box office success, grossing approximately $44 million. The film currently holds a 75% approval rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, although its audience score stands at a lower 54%. Despite this disparity, many fans of the director view “Oculus” as one of his most compelling original works, showcasing Flanagan’s ability to craft original horror that pulls no punches.
While “Oculus” may not mark Flanagan’s directorial debut—that honor goes to his indie horror film “Absentia”—it did serve as his first feature project with well-known actors and significant production backing from Blumhouse Productions. The film debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival before receiving a wide release in the United States, resulting in a significant box office impact and establishing Flanagan as a director to watch in the horror genre.
What sets “Oculus” apart is its deviation from conventional studio filmmaking standards. The film is marked by its unwavering intensity, clever storytelling, and refusal to resort to cliché jump scares. Instead, it thoughtfully develops its plot and characters, employing a complex dual-narrative structure that draws viewers deeper into its eerie story. The film reflects Flanagan’s knack for compelling storytelling, foreshadowing his future success with adaptations of Stephen King’s works.
In an age where horror often leans towards formulaic tropes, “Oculus” remains a testament to the potency of original storytelling within the genre. Its addition to Tubi’s free streaming library invites a new audience to explore the unsettling themes and haunting visuals that define Flanagan’s early work, affirming “Oculus” as one of the standout horror films of the 21st century.
