Our House (2018) – A Haunting Tale of Innovation and Loss
Introduction
“Our House,” directed by Anthony Scott Burns, is a 2018 supernatural horror film that explores the intersection of grief, invention, and the paranormal. Starring Thomas Mann, Nicola Peltz, and Percy Hynes White, the film offers a chilling narrative that delves into the unintended consequences of tampering with the unknown.
Plot Summary
The story follows Ethan (Thomas Mann), a young, brilliant college student who is working on a groundbreaking invention designed to generate wireless electricity. When his parents die in a tragic car accident, Ethan is forced to abandon his studies and return home to care for his younger siblings, Matt (Percy Hynes White) and Becca (Kate Moyer).
Struggling with guilt and grief, Ethan continues to work on his invention in the family’s basement. However, as he refines the device, strange and unsettling occurrences begin to plague the household. The siblings soon realize that Ethan’s invention is not only generating power but also opening a portal to the spirit world.
As the supernatural activity intensifies, Ethan, Matt, and Becca encounter apparitions that initially seem benign but quickly turn malevolent. The family must confront the spirits and uncover the truth behind their haunting. With the help of Ethan’s girlfriend, Hannah (Nicola Peltz), they race against time to shut down the device and protect themselves from the entities they have inadvertently unleashed.
Performance and Direction
Thomas Mann delivers a heartfelt and compelling performance as Ethan, capturing the character’s emotional turmoil and determination. His portrayal effectively conveys the weight of responsibility and the desperation to make amends for his perceived failures. Nicola Peltz provides strong support as Hannah, bringing warmth and resilience to the role. Percy Hynes White and Kate Moyer add depth to the film with their portrayals of Ethan’s vulnerable yet brave siblings.
Anthony Scott Burns’ direction creates a tense and atmospheric horror experience. The film’s pacing balances moments of quiet dread with bursts of intense supernatural activity, maintaining a steady build-up of suspense. Burns’ use of visual and auditory cues enhances the eerie ambiance, making the presence of the spirits palpable.
Visual and Special Effects
The film’s visual style is dark and moody, with effective use of shadows and lighting to create a sense of unease. The cinematography by Tom Hammock captures the claustrophobic feel of the family home, emphasizing the isolation and vulnerability of the characters. The practical effects and CGI are used sparingly but effectively, adding to the film’s haunting atmosphere without overwhelming the narrative.
The supernatural elements are portrayed with subtlety, relying on sound design and atmospheric tension rather than overt special effects. This approach enhances the film’s psychological horror, making the ghostly encounters feel more intimate and personal.
Themes and Analysis
“Our House” explores themes of grief, guilt, and the unintended consequences of scientific experimentation. The film delves into the emotional impact of loss and the lengths to which individuals will go to reconnect with loved ones. Ethan’s invention, intended to revolutionize energy, becomes a metaphor for the dangers of playing with forces beyond human understanding.
The film also examines the dynamics of family and the burden of responsibility. Ethan’s struggle to balance his ambitions with his duty to his siblings highlights the sacrifices and challenges faced by those who take on caregiver roles. The supernatural aspect serves as a catalyst for the characters to confront their unresolved emotions and fears.
Streaming and Availability
“Our House,” the film is available for streaming on several platforms in the United States. You can watch it on Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. Additionally, it is available for rent or purchase on Google Play, Vudu, and Apple TV.
Conclusion
“Our House” is a chilling and emotionally resonant horror film that combines elements of supernatural suspense with a poignant exploration of grief and responsibility. With strong performances, particularly from Thomas Mann, and atmospheric direction by Anthony Scott Burns, the film offers a compelling and haunting viewing experience. Whether you’re a fan of psychological horror or stories that delve into the complexities of human emotion, “Our House” delivers a powerful and unsettling narrative.
