A Constant Visual Feast

(Disclosure: I’ve written a piece sorta like this in the past, but where the emphasis is more on Stevens’ transformation from “handsome period actor” to “certified freak 7 days a week.” This piece focuses on the specifics of what makes him, in my opinion, the best horror actor of his generation, and one of the best working today period.)

“In Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett’s Abigail, the first of Dan Stevens’ 2024 horror movie appearances, the erstwhile Downton Abbey cast member has fun. He even says so on screen! ‘Where’s the fun in that?’ he purrs to Melissa Barrera’s blood-soaked and bruised protagonist when she wonders why he won’t straight-up kill her. Not that the meta-confession is necessary, of course; Stevens’ tough affect and wry irritability plainly highlight his enjoyment in his role.” (Full article available at The Daily Beast.)