Passenger (2026) Review: A Terrifying Highway Horror by André Øvredal

source: tv.lk21

Synopis:

Passenger (2026) is a film in the Horror, Thriller, Supernatural, and Folk Horror genres. Directed by André Øvredal, it has a runtime of 94 minutes and was released on May 22, 2026, in U.S. theaters. It tells the story of Tyler and Maddie, a young couple who sold everything they owned to live a nomadic "Van Life" and travel around in a van. At first, their road trip feels free and exciting. But a few weeks in, they stop to help someone with a horrific accident on a deserted highway. A huge mistake. From that moment, "something" follows them. A demonic entity called the Passenger attaches itself to them and won’t stop until it claims both of their lives. What started as a romantic adventure turns into a fight for survival on dark roads and wherever they go.

Critics praise its suffocating atmosphere. Øvredal is clever in playing on our most basic fears: empty night roads, a closed-in van, empty highways, and isolation used as a metaphor for fear. The horror is effective — a combination of supernatural, monster, and psychological horror. The timing of the jump scares and the creepy vibe are spot-on. Many say the nighttime road set pieces keep you tense the entire time. However, critics note the weaknesses: a slow pace in the beginning and a loss of direction in the final act.

This film stars: Jacob Scipio, Lou Llobell, Melissa Leo, Joseph Lopez and more.

In my opinion:

In my opinion, this is a very unique horror film, and to be honest, I’ve never seen anything like it before. To me, this film is The Conjuring on the highway, which means it’s a good film because it truly creates a terrifying atmosphere on the road. Although the visual design of the Passenger isn’t that scary, with the right cinematography and timing, the director makes the ghost’s presence genuinely terrifying. The story is also quite unique and unlike anything I’ve seen before — like Hobo Code, the story of Saint Kristofolus, and the sacred rules of travelers.

But as usual, there are classic horror movie moments that feel unlucky or too "coincidental." For example, when Tyler and Maddie try to get to St. Kristoforus’s Church, their car tire suddenly goes flat. I felt that was an odd coincidence and it makes you wonder: was that the work of the Passenger, or just bad luck? Jump scare elements are also a mainstay in this film, so prepare your heart. A few murder scenes, but each one is extremely brutal.

You’ll find great visuals and cinematography, plus strong and natural characters in this film. I’m sure you guys will get frustrated with Maddie’s character, played by Lou Llobell. Not because she’s weak or whiny, but because Maddie is portrayed as a woman who seems to support her man, but in reality she’s only pretending and only supportive at the beginning. Though the ending isn’t sad (sorry if that’s a spoiler).

For me this one is 7.5/10.