The Wasteland Reviewer

Drop (2025) Written Review

What does Christopher Landon have up his sleeve post Scream 7 fiasco? The creator of Happy Death Day decided he was going to channel some of his love for Hitchcock and craft an exciting new thriller. That new thriller is Drop, a film that takes place (mostly) in a skyscraper restaurant. A first date is bad enough but when one of the people on the date begins receiving ominous air drops to her phone, things are going to get complicated. But complicated is just the name for it as this date quickly becomes…deadly. This clever concept opens the door for 95-minutes of pulpy fun. 

What does Landon bring to the table as he plays around in this Hitchcockian sandbox? So much of the experience of this film comes down to the impressive technical aspects. The camera movements are smooth with (mostly quality editing) to build up the sense of tension. There are a few scenes that feel way too choppy from an editing standpoint which is disappointing (especially the final scene of the film). The blocking is a really important element of this film for sure. This is a film that takes place mostly in one place. Claustrophobic vibes are so important to keep the characters and audience on edge. The lens and close-up shots make our characters feel like they are trapped in this dangerous situation. Landon and cinematographer Marc Spicer throw in some fun classic filmmaking motifs. Dutch angles…they hit so well throughout this film. There are some aggressive camera tilts that make for some dynamic moments and visceral impact. The pacing of this film is breakneck, and it gives Drop such a propulsive feel. 

But does the story compel as much as the fun and engaging filmmaking? The overall concept is fresh and new. The use of air drops builds mystery and suspense. You are constantly questioning everyone in this restaurant. A great mystery can go a long way to make a film work and Drop benefits from an effective and engaging mystery. The dynamic between the two characters on this unfortunate date has a lot of strong material to work with. The script from Jillian Jacobs and Chris Roach weaves in some poignant emotional threads (especially with the protagonist Violet) that bring some depth and weight to the story. The film is well structured as well as new layers are threaded in to keep the tension high. The final act has some satisfying reveals for the mystery but there are some shaky logic and timing issues for the finale climax of the film. But a strong romantic dynamic and mystery go a long way to deliver a satisfying cinematic journey. 

Does this cast bring the spark to tie this high-tension thriller together? The chemistry between Meghann Fahy and Brandon Sklenar is just off the charts. They make for sure an engaging and charming couple which is essential when you have the whole film centered on their date. But their individual performances are both impactful as well. Fahy is the anchor for the whole film, and she must sell so much through her facial expressions and other body language. As she receives these mysterious air drops, she must hide fear and terror underneath the surface and Fahy nails it. The ability of Fahy and Sklenar to communicate with each other through glances is impressive. Sklenar feels authentic in his performance as he must sell all the questioning and concerns his character has towards his date. There are a few emotional moments that Fahy sells so well. There are plenty of smaller characters that leave an impression on the audience that a lot of the praise must go to those actors. The film is legitimately funny, and the comedic timing of this cast is the biggest factor in that. 

Is Drop another win for Landon? His career continues to be so fun and successful as Drop continues his trend of delivering funny and thrilling horror/thrillers. The humor feels so organic in this flick and the tension is expertly realized. Drop wears its love for Hitchcock on its sleeves and channels these classic motifs and style so well. Well-made and exciting, Drop is one of the most fun cinematic experiences of the year so far.