Blumhouse and Atomic Monster’s Night Swim is set to make its digital debut tomorrow, January 23, just a shade over two weeks since its theatrical release on January 5.
Crafted by the creative mind of Bryce McGuire, and backed by the producing prowess of James Wan and Jason Blum, Night Swim, an extension of a similarly titled short film, unfolds the eerie tale of Ray Waller (portrayed by Wyatt Russell), a retired major league baseball player. Ray, grappling with a degenerative illness, relocates his family to a new residence adorned with a seemingly innocent backyard swimming pool. Little do they know that this aquatic oasis serves as the conduit for a malevolent force.
The film’s synopsis provides a glimpse into the unfolding horror: “Ray Waller, a former major league baseball player forced into early retirement by a degenerative illness, moves into a new home with his concerned wife Eve, teenage daughter Izzy, and young son Elliot. Secretly harboring hopes of returning to professional baseball, Ray convinces Eve that the shimmering backyard swimming pool will be a source of enjoyment for the kids and therapeutic for him. However, a dark secret from the home’s past unleashes a malevolent force, dragging the family into the depths of inescapable terror.”
In addition to Russell’s compelling performance, Night Swim features an ensemble cast including Kerry Condon, Amélie Hoeferle, and Gavin Warren. The executive producers include Michael Clear, Judson Scott, and Ryan Turek.
Despite its financial success, with over $36 million in global box office revenue against a $15 million budget, Night Swim struggles to stay afloat when measured against the standard set by other Blumhouse releases. Critical reception further compounds the challenges, with a mere 22% critic score and a 41% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Alyse Wax from ComingSoon expressed disappointment, labeling the film “a disappointing (and shallow) dip for Blumhouse.” Jonathan Sim, also from ComingSoon, echoed similar sentiments, describing Night Swim as “a mediocre horror movie experience.”
However, the film has the chance for redemption as it reaches a wider audience on its digital release on January 23, available for ownership or rental. Perhaps, in the intimate confines of home screens, Night Swim might unveil its chilling narrative with a fresh appeal.