I have not read the book, but I really enjoyed Bird Box and did find myself at the edge of my seat for most of the film. The back and forth between present and past were well spaced and edited, the music was great and the lack of gore (for a horror film) was refreshing.

Yes, the story line is nothing original in itself. Many a horror film has been made with similar themes, i.e. don't listen, don't make a noise (no, it's not 'A Quiet Place' rip-off), don't switch off the lights, etc etc. However, the story was well executed and well acted. Sandra Bullock was great and supported by fab performances from John Malkovich, Tom Hollander and others. The child actors in particular were great.

Unlike others, I liked the fact that there was no explanations as to the origins of the monster, what it looked like or why it arrived on earth. Not every film has to have neat little bows everywhere unlike most of the rubbish, brainless junk the Hollywood movie machine churns out yearly.

As a side note, how amazing does Sandra Bullock look at over 54!