Mirrors (2008) is a spine-chilling supernatural horror film that transforms everyday reflections into portals of terror. Directed by Alexandre Aja, known for High Tension, this horror movie stars Kiefer Sutherland as a troubled ex-cop facing a malevolent force lurking within mirrors. Available on platforms like Tubi, Peacock, or Amazon Prime, Mirrors blends psychological horror with ghost story elements, delivering a haunting experience for fans of horror films and thriller movies. In this movie review, we explore why this 2008 horror classic remains a gripping watch in 2025.
Plot Overview: Reflections of Evil
The Premise of Mirrors
Mirrors follows Ben Carson (Kiefer Sutherland), a disgraced former detective taking a job as a night security guard at the charred ruins of the Mayflower Department Store in New York City. As Ben patrols the desolate building, he notices something sinister: the mirrors reflect horrifying visions that defy reality. These aren’t mere illusions—the reflections have a deadly will, capable of reaching through the glass to kill. As Ben’s life unravels, he uncovers a dark history tied to the mirrors, involving a nun, a psychiatric experiment gone wrong, and a malevolent entity. With his estranged wife Amy (Paula Patton) and their children at risk, Ben races to unravel the mystery before the mirrors claim them all.
Why the Story Grips
The film’s premise—what if your reflection could kill?—is instantly unsettling, tapping into primal fears of the unknown. At 111 minutes, Mirrors balances slow-burn tension with shocking set pieces, like the infamous jaw-ripping scene, praised on X as “gore at its most inventive.” While some criticize its reliance on horror clichés, the mythological lore and psychological depth elevate it, making it a standout in supernatural horror and ghost story genres.
Atmosphere and Setting: A Haunting Backdrop
The Mayflower’s Eerie Ruins
The burnt-out Mayflower Department Store is a character in itself, with its shattered mirrors, scorched walls, and oppressive silence creating a claustrophobic atmosphere. Alexandre Aja’s direction, combined with Maxime Alexandre’s shadowy cinematography, transforms the store into a labyrinth of dread. Every reflection becomes a potential threat, amplifying the horror and making Mirrors a visual feast for fans of horrormovies.
