Devon is a 2024 found footage horror film marking the directorial debut of Jenni “JWoww” Farley. The narrative centers on the mysterious disappearance of a young woman named Devon from a notorious asylum. Years after the incident, a cryptic website recruits five adventurers to explore the abandoned asylum where she was last seen, armed with cameras to document their journey. Unbeknownst to them, they are about to film their own descent into horror, never meant to return.
The film’s setting, the abandoned Pennhurst State School and Hospital, provides an authentically eerie backdrop that enhances the atmospheric tension. The plot follows the group as they navigate the asylum’s dark corridors, encountering unexplained phenomena that test their resolve and sanity. The use of handheld cameras aims to immerse the audience in the characters’ experiences, heightening the sense of immediacy and dread.
Critical reception of “Devon” has been mixed. Stephanie Malone of Morbidly Beautiful commented on the film’s execution, stating, “There were a lot of loud noises, screaming, and implied spookiness, yet you can’t see much of anything.” Conversely, Molly Henery from The Blogging Banshee found merit in the film, noting that it is “a memorable directorial debut for Farley, showing she clearly knows and loves the horror genre while bringing ghostly terror to the screen.”
Audience reactions have also varied. Some viewers appreciated the film’s pacing and setting, with one reviewer stating, “Not bad for Jenni’s 1st movie. If she keeps at it, she will become better! I’m excited to see what’s next!” However, others criticized aspects such as the plot and acting, with a viewer expressing, “It’s hard to put into words how bad this film is. It comes off as a shining homage to some of the greats like The Blair Witch Project, but it meanders around with a lazy plot twist.”
Devon offers an exploration into found footage horror, leveraging a chilling setting and a narrative that delves into the unknown. While it has garnered both praise and criticism, the film stands as a testament to Farley’s passion for the genre and her willingness to venture into new creative territories.