By contemporary Hollywood standards, The First Omen should not be as good as it is. Sequels, prequels, spinoffs and reboots are dime-a-dozen in the world of horror, and it would not be unusual to see a successful film garner multiple additions to their respective canons, typically with diminishing returns for each new episode.

Which brings us to the sixth installment of The Omen series, a series you could be forgiven for thinking was dead in the water - for all intents and purposes, it was. The First Omen, however, injects new life into the previously dormant series. Not only is it a phenomenal entry in this series, but The First Omen is one of the best horror films of recent memory. The world-building is quick and efficient, and before long we're solidly installed into the world of 1970’s Rome, in and amongst the nuns and priests who scurry about in the towering shadow of the Vatican. The vibes are immediately and intentionally off. Catholic imagery has always been creepy, and it's utilised to incredible effect here.

The moment we touch down in Rome, the disquieting paintings of judgment days and crucifixions are deployed to quickly build the sense of impending doom. The music is equally incessant, swelling with sinister choirs and chilling shrieks. There's a sizzling and unnerving tension in the very roots of The First Omen, a tension that lingers like a rash until the final credits and beyond - because yes, The First Omen will cling to you long after the story has concluded.

The story of The First Omen is truly haunting. It's disturbing and upsetting, and it's delivered with such seriousness by the incredible-across-the-board cast that it's hard not to take it seriously. Equally, the cinematography is obscenely accomplished, more so than one would ever expect or require from a film such as this. But it elevates proceedings, establishing the film as a serious bit of filmmaking. The set pieces (and fear not - there are plenty) are legitimately harrowing, which when coupled with the unnerving imagery that accompanies them will leave you digging your nails into your palms in fear.

The First Omen is a riotous time at the cinema. It's almost comically frightening, so unbelievably antagonising that it's truly not for the faint of heart. Consider this review a caution. But consider it also as a sincere and insistent recommendation - go and see The First Omen. Just be prepared to toss and turn for the rest of the night as the memories linger of the horrors you'll bare witness to whilst in the film's clutches.