Whilst Bird Box isn't going to win any awards for originality, it packs just enough of a punch to succeed on the whole. Some people complain about the pacing being too slow. I found it just about right, with the timeline shift back and forth providing some much needed intrigue and mystery as the film develops. I have to say, this film has one of the more memorable and affecting opening sequences I've seen for some time and is played brilliantly.

The cast does a stellar job with what is ultimately a minimalist piece relying on tension building and dread, which they do admirably. A special mention has to go to Sandra Bullock who is terrific as Malorie, and Sarah Paulson who turns in an extremely brief but memorable performance that I was thinking about long after the credits had rolled.

All in all a very solid little movie without any bells and whistles. Give it a go, you might be surprised. It certainly surprised me.