Film Review – Passenger (2026)

      Passenger, 2026.

      Directed by André Øvredal.

      Starring Jacob Scipio, Lou Llobell, and Melissa Leo.

      SYNOPSIS:

      After a young couple witnesses a brutal highway accident, they soon realize they did not leave the scene alone, as a demonic entity known as the Passenger is intent on claiming them both.

      There is just enough metaphor in how the horror elements in André Øvredal’s film Passenger connect to the relationship drama of the van-life couple Tyler and Maddie (played by Jacob Scipio and Lou Llobell), as well as the typical exploration of the lore surrounding such a demonic force, but crucially, it retains the right balance. The film never strays so far into those themes that it neglects its frightening aspects or devolves into a pure relationship drama; it primarily remains a straightforward thrill ride, pun unintended. Some elements, particularly the screenplay by Zachary Donohue and T.W. Burgess, contribute weaknesses to the film, especially regarding its superficial character development. However, Passenger compensates significantly with a series of chilling and visually impressive nighttime road sequences that build momentum and become increasingly relentless.

      The narrative gains some engagement from the fact that Tyler and Maddie are six weeks into abandoning their former lives in pursuit of the freedom of van living and traveling wherever they feel inclined. This was a joint decision they initially embraced, but as the excitement fades, Maddie starts to question whether this was indeed the right choice for them.

      We don’t gain enough insight into the characters or their relationship to identify any clear issues, although it becomes evident that this life on the road, which ostensibly offers limitless freedom, might also act as a shield against whatever they should be addressing. The small communities they encounter are beautifully portrayed, but it feels more like they are running rather than living.

      For now, Tyler and Maddie must continue moving— or rather driving—after one night, they absentmindedly overlooked the aftermath of a car crash on a mostly deserted road, unaware that the driver was tormented by a demonic being known as The Passenger, chillingly represented and performed by Joseph Lopez under layers of prosthetics that seem to be digitally enhanced for maximum creepiness.

      These glimpses of that torment serve as part of a lengthy prologue before flashing back six weeks to our main couple and how they became witnesses to the aftermath of the wreck. This part could have been presented more cohesively, with intercutting between characters until their lives converge, which would have reduced early downtime.

      Regardless, the demon has latched onto Tyler and Maddie, creating scenarios where they must discover how and when it strikes, mostly culminating in driving through the night while being safe during daylight. Naturally, this time brings forth the drawbacks of their van-life transition into a metaphor for horror. However, Passenger primarily delivers claustrophobic frights within a unique approach to hauntings. Mostly filmed at night, the cinematography creatively uses reflective surfaces and flashing lights to heighten tension.

      The characters must also learn to combat this demonic force, which involves a somewhat cheesy solution that is hinted at early on. Still, the suspense in Passenger, combined with solid filmmaking, keeps you invested in the characters’ survival, even during some clichéd and foolish decisions. The film also concludes with a rendition of "The Passenger" playing over the end credits, which deserves at least half a star.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★

      Robert Kojder