The much-anticipated video game adaptation has finally hit theaters, where it has already grossed over $10 million, and is now available on Universal’s streaming platform, Peacock.
The story follows Mike (Josh Hutcherson), a security guard struggling with life, who takes a job at a deserted pizza-arcade with a dark past. Rumours swirl that the animatronic figures there come to life, attacking anyone who dares to intrude.
As Mike investigates further, looking for answers about the pizzeria and a series of local child disappearances, he uncovers a shocking truth, which we’ll reveal below, with insights from director and co-writer Emma Tammi.
The animatronics hide deadly secrets in Five Nights at Freddy’s (Photo: Five Nights at Freddy’s/Scott Cawthon Productions and Blumhouse Productions)Matthew Lillard Plays the Villain
For those who have seen the trailers, it’s already clear that Matthew Lillard is featured in Five Nights at Freddy’s, portraying Steve Raglan, a seemingly harmless career counselor.
However, towards the film’s climax, we learn that Raglan is actually William Afton, a notorious child murderer responsible for the death of Mike’s younger brother years ago. He is also revealed to be the father of Vanessa (Elizabeth Lail), the determined local police officer aiding Mike with his investigation.
Vanessa discloses that the animatronic creatures at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza are inhabited by the souls of the children Afton killed, their spirits now under his control. Additionally, there’s a reference to their bodies being contained within the machines, though the film doesn’t delve too deeply into this.
When Afton’s identity is fully revealed, he is seen piloting one of the animatronic suits (Spring Bonnie, according to Wikipedia!). After nearly three decades since Scream, Lillard is once again revealed as the evil mastermind behind the chaos.
Tammi spoke to TheWrap about casting Lillard, saying, “He actually plays two characters in the film, not just one. That was a special addition for the movie.
But when stepping into Afton’s shoes, Matthew knew how important that role was. Bringing someone of his stature, who is iconic in his own right, to portray such a legendary character was a perfect match.”
She continued, “Matthew was thrilled because his children are fans of the game, and he understood the magnitude of this role. He was fantastic to work with. Afton is such a dark character who commits unspeakable acts, but Matthew always brings a sinister performance that carries a subtle smile and a wink. He enjoys portraying these dark, wild characters, and he nails it here.”
Is Afton Still Alive?
As Mike’s younger sister Abby reveals to the animatronics that Afton was the one who killed them, the creatures turn on him, crushing him inside his animatronic suit. The film closes with a shot of Afton’s body crumpled and locked away in a storage room.
Mike’s investigation leads him into a nightmare of haunted machines (Photo: Five Nights at Freddy’s/Scott Cawthon Productions and Blumhouse Productions)However, as the camera zooms in, it suggests that Afton may still have some life in him. Is he truly dead, or has his spirit transferred to one of the animatronics? One of the ghostly children slams the door shut on Afton’s form, leaving the question unanswered.
Tammi has yet to confirm anything. However, she did tease that the question could be explored further if the film leads to sequels. “If we’re lucky, and audiences enjoy this first one, we’ll certainly see through that storyline in the next movie,” Tammi said.
Mid-Credits Tease
A mid-credits scene shows a taxi driver, who has already encountered one of the animatronics, sleeping in his cab. He’s suddenly startled awake by Balloon Boy, one of the famous video game characters known for his perfectly timed jump scares, now sitting in the passenger seat. The cab driver screams, and the screen fades to black.
Could Balloon Boy return in a sequel? It’s certainly a possibility. Tammi, however, is not yet thinking that far ahead. “Right now, we’re focused on getting this movie out to as many people as possible and hoping they’ll love it,” she said. “We’ve only just finished the film, so it’s all been a bit hectic, and our attention is on making this one the best it can be.”
“But, if all goes well, I’d be thrilled to continue the story and, fingers crossed, we can keep making movies in this universe.” Five Nights at Freddy’s is currently screening in cinemas and is available for streaming on Peacock.
