It’s been six years since John Krasinski introduced us to the world of A Quiet Place. That film dropped us into the middle of a world terrorized by monstrous creatures who preyed on those that made noise. It focused on a family who found a way to insulate on a farm in the country.

But what if they were in a big city and never saw it coming? That’s the premise of the newest entry in the franchise—A Quiet Place: Day One. Here, we’re taken back to the beginning and dropped into the heart of New York City.

At the outset, we meet Samira (Lupita Nyong’o), a woman struggling with illness and group therapy sessions. But she has a faithful companion in her cat. Soon, she’s invited to go with her group to a show in the heart of New York City. She accepts on the promise she can get a decent slice of pizza.

While in the city, something happens. The authorities are racing around, and her group is called to return. Before their bus can leave, the city is attacked, and they descend. That leaves Sam and her cat to try and survive.

The premise of these films is pretty simple—stay alive. And to do that, you have to adapted to a soundless world. But this installment—written and directed by Michael Sarnoski—introduces us to a new setting, a new set of characters, and the outbreak of how the world changed. It’s a bold addition to the franchise—the first to move away from our primary family.

These films work not just because of the production and story but because of the connection to the characters. That’s where this film makes a great impact. It’s not just Nyong’o but the young law student played by Joseph Quinn that draws you in and keeps you hooked.

These two together are incredible on screen, conveying so much without the aid of much dialogue. Their connection is powerful, drawing you in to the world and their journey. There are so many beautiful emotions conveyed through the performance that strengthen this film. Other supporting actors—like Alex Wolff and Djimon Hounsou—also add to the richness of this journey, as does the cat, who plays like something of a main character.

The success here is a credit to Sarnoski (Pig), who wrote the screenplay and directed the film after working on the story with Krasinski. He expands this franchise—taking it to a new setting with new characters—while finding a way to make something unique in this established world. I loved the production and the way the film comes together.

We’ve seen some interesting and varied horror films so far in 2024, and A Quiet Place: Day One is the best for me on that list. It’s engaging, beautifully crafted, and features some powerful performances. It’s a great way to end the first half of 2024!

A Quiet Place: Day One is now playing nationwide.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.