“Haunt” (2019) Movie Review: A Chilling Halloween Horror Experience
Introduction
“Haunt,” a 2019 horror film directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, delivers a terrifying and suspenseful Halloween experience. Starring Katie Stevens, Will Brittain, and Lauryn McClain, the film takes the haunted house trope to new heights, offering a blend of classic scares and inventive horror elements. This review explores the plot, performances, visual style, and where to stream or rent “Haunt” in the United States.
Plot Summary
The film follows a group of friends—Harper (Katie Stevens), Nathan (Will Brittain), Bailey (Lauryn McClain), Angela (Shazi Raja), Evan (Andrew Caldwell), and Mallory (Schuyler Helford)—on Halloween night as they seek out a haunted house attraction to cap off their spooky celebrations. They stumble upon an isolated, extreme haunted house that promises an unforgettable and terrifying experience.
Upon entering, the group quickly realizes that the scares are more than just elaborate set pieces. The haunt’s masked performers take their roles far too seriously, and the friends find themselves trapped in a real-life nightmare. As the night progresses, they must navigate through increasingly dangerous and gruesome rooms, all while evading the sadistic traps and intentions of their captors.
As secrets are revealed and the body count rises, Harper and her friends must rely on their wits and bravery to survive the night and escape the deadly haunted house.
Performance and Direction
Katie Stevens shines as Harper, delivering a compelling and relatable performance that anchors the film. Her portrayal of a young woman confronting both external horrors and personal demons adds depth to the narrative. Will Brittain and Lauryn McClain provide strong support, with their characters’ chemistry and camaraderie enhancing the group’s dynamics.
Directors Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, known for their work on “A Quiet Place,” effectively create a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere. Their use of practical effects, tight pacing, and inventive set designs ensures that the horror remains grounded and visceral. The directors’ ability to balance suspense with moments of shocking violence keeps viewers engaged and on edge throughout the film.
Cinematography and Special Effects
The cinematography by Ryan Samul captures the eerie and unsettling ambiance of the haunted house, using dim lighting, shadowy corridors, and tight framing to heighten the sense of dread. The film’s visual style emphasizes the claustrophobic and disorienting nature of the haunt, immersing viewers in the characters’ harrowing experience.
Special effects and practical makeup are standout elements of “Haunt,” with gruesome and realistic designs that enhance the horror. The film’s use of practical effects over CGI adds to its authenticity and impact, making the scares feel more immediate and tangible.
Streaming Availability
In the United States, “Haunt” is available for streaming on various platforms. You can watch it on:
- Amazon Prime Video (with a subscription)
- Hulu
- Shudder
Rental and Purchase Options
For those who prefer to rent or purchase “Haunt,” the film is available on multiple major platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent or buy in HD and SD.
- iTunes: Rent or buy with options for HD.
- Google Play: Rent or buy in HD and SD.
- YouTube Movies: Rent or buy in HD and SD.
- Vudu: Rent or buy in HDX, HD, and SD.
Conclusion
“Haunt” is a chilling and effective horror film that capitalizes on the fear of the unknown and the macabre allure of haunted houses. With strong performances, especially from Katie Stevens, and masterful direction by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the film offers a suspenseful and gruesome ride that horror enthusiasts will appreciate. Its blend of classic horror elements and innovative scares makes “Haunt” a must-watch for those seeking a thrilling Halloween experience.
