Orphan: First Kill – New Twists Abound In This Fun & Spooky Prequel!

By Delaina Dixon | August 18, 2022 | Entertainment

She’s back! I am a huge fan of the twisted horror flick Orphan, which came out in 2009. While it’s a horror movie, once I learned its premise, I thought it was pretty damn ingenious. It centers around Esther, a young girl who is adopted by an unsuspecting family. Once there she winds up doing very evil things. Esther has a big secret, one I won’t give away here, but I suggest you keep an eye on her choker necklace.

Esther’s Origin Story

Now, over a decade later, Paramount+ brings us Esther: First Kill. This is a prequel to the original film, letting us all finally know how Esther came to be. Much like the original, she’s brought into a family. But as they say, you never know what is happening behind closed doors.

A New Plot Twist?

I know what you are thinking: if we already know Esther’s secret, how can this movie deliver any surprises? All I can say is that it does. But it takes a while to get there. You may find yourself drifting off during the color-drained opening sequences and Esther’s arrival in America to be with this family. But patience will be rewarded. There’s a whole new twist, complete with the gore and glee we expect Esther to bring. For those who remember why Esther was in a local orphanage when the original Orphan dropped, this prequel conjures up that much-needed explanation. And yep, there are a few scenes that had me laughing out loud — again. And dare I say it? This movie may actually make you root for Esther, considering the circumstances.

Bringing Back the OG

True Oprhan fans will be stoked that original actress, Isabelle Fuhrman, is back in the role, thanks to some appropriately-sized stunt doubles and strategic movie angles. Julia Stiles, Hiro Kanagawa and Samantha Walkes also star.

Where To Watch

Orphan: First Kill, premieres on Paramount+ and will be available to purchase on Digital beginning Friday, August 19. The film also debuts in limited theaters.