: Given the pop-star setting, the film features several musical numbers and "eye candy" sequences that some find entertaining, though others feel they distract from the horror.
These video reviews provide more context on the film's blend of Vietnamese folklore and modern pop culture: The Guardian (2021) - Movie Review YouTube · Sezer T The Guardian (2021) - A Must-See Vietnamese Horror Film TikTok · azmirakmar The Guardian (2021)
Reviewers are divided, with professional ratings often hovering around a to 6/10 . : Given the pop-star setting, the film features
: Many viewers find the two-hour runtime too long for the amount of story provided. Some critics on IMDb describe the script as "mind-numbingly slow" and lacking genuine horror scares. Some critics on IMDb describe the script as
: The film explores "spirit dolls" (Kuman Thong) in the Vietnamese pop music industry. However, the final "message" and certain plot twists have been criticized as moralistic or even "victim-blaming" by some reviewers. Key Highlights & Critiques
: While some appreciate the late-film plot twists, others found the extensive flashbacks used to explain them to be tedious.
: The cast, particularly Truc Anh, is often noted for delivering solid performances despite the script's flaws.
