new horror movies Amelia's Children: A Twisted Horror Comedy with a Gothic Flair

**Directed by:** Gabriel Abrantes  

**Starring:** Brigette Lundy-Paine, Carloto Cotta, Anabela Moreira

"Amelia's Children" is a Portuguese horror comedy that takes a unique twist on the genre, blending a suspicious wife, her clueless husband, and his eerie family into a story that's as fraught as it is straightforward. While it might not be for everyone, the film's quirky humor and gothic scenario make it an intriguing watch.

Plot Summary:

Ryley (Brigette Lundy-Paine) and her husband Ed (Carloto Cotta) visit his estranged and decrepit mother Amelia (Anabela Moreira), only to uncover an incestuous and possibly supernatural conspiracy. Amelia's unsettling botched plastic surgery and the mysterious figure in the basement add to the eerie atmosphere. Manuel (also played by Cotta), Ed's brother with long hair and cowboy boots, further adds to the peculiarity.

A Quasi-Gothic Scenario:

The film's charm lies in its quasi-gothic setting and a perverse sense of humor. It's a restrained old dark house movie where the secrets are less compelling than the cast's chemistry and comedic timing. The awkward silences and deadpan expressions punctuate the overheated exchanges, creating a pulpy and cheeky atmosphere.

Conceptual Humor:

The humor in "Amelia's Children" is conceptual, with the scenario itself being the joke, often pitched with a straight face. The characters inadvertently highlight their circumstantial ridiculousness without completely breaking from genre conventions. The movie begins with a flashback to a child abduction incident in a gothic villa, setting the tone for the peculiar events that follow.

Character Dynamics:

Ed's use of a mysterious app called AnceStory, due to his abandonment as a baby, leads him and Ryley on a trip to claim his family. Their genuine, easygoing interactions add depth to the story. Ryley's discomfort around Amelia, who has had too much plastic surgery, is a source of humor, especially when Amelia suggests Ryley paint her portrait.

Standout Moments:

There are unnerving and funny moments throughout the film. For instance, when Ryley uses her translator app to eavesdrop on Amelia, the app chillingly translates, "She’s listening." Another humorous moment occurs when Amelia philosophically says, “Time eats us. Like potatoes,” and Ryley awkwardly responds, “Well, it’s so nice to meet you.”

Final Thoughts:

"Amelia's Children" might frustrate viewers expecting more aggressive or grisly humor, but it excels in subtly over-inflating the psychosexual subtext of its characters' relationships. The film's elusive tone and conceptual humor make it an intriguing watch, especially for horror fans who enjoy a blend of gothic and comedic elements.

**Rating:** ★★★☆☆

"Amelia's Children" is a charmingly grotesque horror comedy that might not be to everyone's taste. Its quirky humor and gothic atmosphere make it a unique addition to the genre. While it may not deliver constant laughs, its clever scenario and well-timed gags offer a delightful viewing experience for those who appreciate its peculiar style.