The Video Game Movie Curse Strikes Again
Direct-to-video sequels and reboots are a tough sell to begin with, but Doom: Annihilation feels particularly lost. Released in 2019, it arrived at a time when the Doom games were having a massive cultural resurgence thanks to the 2016 reboot. Instead of leaning into that heavy-metal, high-speed energy, Annihilation retreats into a slow, dark, and ultimately generic sci-fi horror template.
Where it Fails
The biggest issue isn't the lack of a budget—plenty of great horror movies are made for pennies. The issue is the pacing. The movie follows a group of Marines who are largely interchangeable, walking through repetitive sets until they get picked off. It lacks the 'Doom Slayer' power fantasy that makes the games fun.
Comparison to the 2005 Movie
Ironically, the 2005 Doom movie starring The Rock and Karl Urban looks like a masterpiece compared to this. While that version was widely mocked for changing the demons into 'genetically mutated humans,' it at least had a budget, recognizable stars, and a memorable first-person shooter sequence. Annihilation attempts a similar first-person nod, but it feels like a low-budget fan film by comparison.
If your teen is asking to watch this because they love the games, be honest with them: it's not the same vibe. The games are about being an unstoppable force; the movie is about being a victim in a dark hallway.
