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Case 39
Case 39
2009 ·109 min ·Canada, United States of America ·R 16+
4.8
IMDb 6.2 RT 22% MC 25
Horror, Mystery, Thriller
Director: Christian Alvart
Trailers Case 39

In her many years as a social worker, Emily Jenkins believes she has seen it all, until she meets 10-year-old Lilith and the girl's cruel parents. Emily's worst fears are confirmed when the parents try to harm the child, and so Emily assumes custody of Lilith while she looks for a foster family. However, Emily soon finds that dark forces surround the seemingly innocent girl, and the more she tries to protect Lilith, the more horrors she encounters.

Budget: $27M
US Gross: $13.26M
Worldwide: $29M
Renée Zellweger
Actor
Ian McShane
Actor
Jodelle Ferland
Actor
🏆3 nominations total

Case 39 is a conventional horror-thriller that, while derivative and predictable, is bolstered by strong lead performances. Although it suffers from a lack of thematic originality and a disappointing shift in tone, its well-crafted suspense sequences provide a serviceable viewing experience for genre fans.

Acting Renee Zellweger and Jodelle Ferland provide compelling performances that anchor the film above its generic script.
Originality The narrative relies heavily on tired tropes and clichés, offering very little in terms of fresh or inventive storytelling.
Screenplay The plot is entirely predictable, stripping the mystery of its potential for genuine surprise.
Direction Opinions are divided on the film's execution: some viewers appreciate the well-crafted shocks and suspenseful atmosphere, while others find the reliance on genre cliches and a silly final act frustrating.
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