Yuàn líng

On their way to a wedding, what will the travelers find on the road? In the evening, seven young adults arrive at a deserted rest stop with restaurants and shops. Soon spooky incidents begin to happen.

The first time I watched it, most of the characters seemed dislikable, and they were set up that way, to each fulfill their destiny in the plot line. The second time I was more tolerant, but they still seem like devices, not acting according to natural instincts.

The most value is contributed by the introverted Xue Lian with her inner monologue, that works as philosophical commentary to the events. There is also witty dialogue at times.

A considerable amount of time is used for going through the motions of what you have already guessed will happen. Apart from that, the overall plot is in my taste as a horror story.

Mostly set in darkness and diligently made as spooky as possible, it is one of the scarier Chinese horror movies. Watch it if you dare.