Finally, I Found a Horror With a Protagonist Who Has Basic Common Sense
If you enjoyed Ready or Not, this one takes it even further. Twist, turns and questionably quotable moments are guaranteed.
As much as I love horror movies, I have to admit that a lot of them tend to make their protagonists senseless and unbelievably naive people. They go exactly where the killer wants them to go. They suddenly don't know how to use light for some reason. And they are devoid of any sense of natural instinct.
Ready or Not (2019) gave us the strong and most importantly, smart female protagonist. But the movie I want to talk about today is in no way inferior. On the contrary, it was one of the first movies I watched in which the main character was at the top of the game.
You're Next (2011): A Fresh Take on Home Invasion Horror
We follow Erin, who joins her boyfriend's wealthy family for a reunion at their remote mansion. You're Next starts as your usual awkward family dinner, but quickly turns into a fight for survival. And this time, a killer has to face our unstoppable female protagonist.
Erin (played brilliantly by Sharni Vinson) actually shows some great survival skills from the get-go. The moment things go south, she's already two steps ahead of everyone else. And her backstory is fascinating, but I'll let you figure this one out by yourself.
Erin Might Be the Smartest Final Girl in Horror
I couldn't be more happy to witness Vinson's portrayal. Finally, we get to see someone who doesn't just scream and run around aimlessly. She's strategic, resourceful, and honestly kind of badass. She uses her environment to her advantage, sets up traps, and doesn't hesitate to fight back when needed.
This is exactly the kind of female protagonist I was looking for and honestly didn't think I'd find.
The movie also doesn't fall into the trap of making her some unbelievable super-soldier. Her skills make perfect sense within the context of her character.
Where to Watch You're Next?
The movie brilliantly subverts our expectations of a typical home invasion horror. And it's an absolute treat to watch. You're Next is funny, dark and terrifying.
It has forever changed my expectations for slashers and its protagonists. So if you're ready to experience this gem, you can catch You're Next on Fandango at Home, Amazon Video or Apple TV+.
