Passenger is a relentless highway horror that offers one hell of a ride, putting your nerves into overdrive. Directed by André Øvredal, the film stars Jacob Scipio and Lou Llobell as a couple whose road trip takes a terrifying turn when they pull over on a secluded road. The movie, released on May 29, 2026, has received a critic's rating of 3.5 out of 5 and a user rating of 3.5 out of 5.
Story
When Tyler (Jacob Scipio) and Maddie (Lou Llobell) decide to sell their suburban home and embark on a life-altering journey in a recreational vehicle, they believe they are steering toward excitement and adventure. However, destiny has its own roadmap, rerouting them straight into the path of a dark entity that spells doom for those who dare drive lonely roads after nightfall.
Review
Director André Øvredal drives the narrative through the eyes of the roadsters, creating an immersive and atmospheric setting that keeps the audience engaged. The film opens with a chilling sequence, setting a strong tone for the horror thriller. Writer Jack Stanley ensures the story stays focused on the couple as they become the target of an evil entity. While the jump scares are somewhat formulaic, they are mostly effective. The chemistry between the lead pair and the simmering uncertainty around how the evil events will affect their relationship keep the screenplay revved up. Both Scipio and Llobell breathe realism into their characters, making their fears and vulnerabilities believable. Even when the horror doesn't fully land, their interpersonal dynamic keeps the audience buckled in.
Where Passenger loses traction is in its backstory and justification for the ghostly happenings. A solid grounding from the past would have given the mayhem more mileage. Despite this, Roman Osin's cinematography ensures the dread feels visceral, and Christopher Young's background score complements the spooky proceedings perfectly.
Overall, Passenger is an effective big-screen horror that knows how to get under the skin of its audience. With relatable characters and an unforgiving stretch of road drama, it throws the audience's fears into overdrive, making you drive a little safer and think twice before stopping on a dark highway.
Cast and Crew
- Jacob Scipio as Tyler
- Lou Llobell as Maddie
- Melissa Leo as Producer and Actress
- Tony Doupe
- André Øvredal as Director
The film runs for 1 hour and 34 minutes and is available in English. It falls under the horror genre.
