"The Night House" – A Haunting Story of Grief and Mystery

Rebecca Hall delivers a standout performance in "The Night House," an old-fashioned ghost story that delves into dark truths after a shocking loss. Reminiscent of classic films like “Carnival of Souls” and “The Innocents,” this movie, directed by David Bruckner, excels at creating a haunting atmosphere that keeps you on edge from start to finish. With excellent sound design and precise camera work, it's a must-see for horror fans and one of the best genre films of 2021.

Plot Overview:

Beth (Rebecca Hall) is devastated by the sudden death of her husband, Owen (Evan Jonigkeit), who took his own life by shooting himself on their boat. Struggling with grief and anger, Beth tries to carry on with her life at their lake house. As she unpacks, she discovers strange items belonging to Owen, including books on the occult with his handwritten notes. What was her husband involved in?

At the same time, Beth starts experiencing intense nightmares. These dreams take place in the lake house and seem to lead her to unsettling discoveries, including a mysterious “mirror house” across the lake where Owen’s darkest secrets are hidden. As she tries to understand these visions, Beth’s emotions of anger, grief, and confusion are palpable. Rebecca Hall's performance is exceptional, bringing depth and authenticity to the character's pain and determination. She stands out in a role that demands a wide range of emotions, similar to performances by Nicole Kidman in “The Others” or Toni Collette in “Hereditary.”

Mystery and Investigation:

The script by Ben Collins and Luke Piotrowski turns Beth into both a survivor and an investigator. People often say that those who take their own lives are hiding something, and this idea drives the plot. Beth discovers Owen was hiding a lot, including a photo of another woman (Stacy Martin) on his phone. The story evolves from a simple tale of a widow uncovering her husband's secrets to something much more complex. The final revelations can be challenging to understand and connect to the rest of the film, but that’s part of the charm. Ghost stories thrive on mystery and unanswered questions.

Atmosphere and Uncertainty:

"The Night House" excels when it embraces uncertainty. The film blurs the line between reality and nightmares, leaving us unsure if Beth is being warned or hunted by her visions. Scenes like wet footprints on the dock or writing in the fog on a shower mirror are brilliantly executed, adding to the eerie atmosphere. Bruckner and Hall masterfully handle these moments, making us feel that the unknown is the scariest part of the story, especially at night.

In conclusion, "The Night House" is a gripping horror film that combines a haunting story with outstanding performances. Rebecca Hall's portrayal of Beth is central to the film's success, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves a good ghost story.