The Invitation (2016) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Invitation (2016), directed by Karyn Kusama, is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into themes of grief, paranoia, and social tension. Starring Logan Marshall-Green, Tammy Blanchard, and Emayatzy Corinealdi, the film is known for its intense atmosphere and thought-provoking narrative. With its slow-burn tension and unexpected twists, The Invitation offers a compelling and unsettling cinematic experience.
This review will explore the film’s plot, character performances, and critical reception, as well as provide information on where to watch The Invitation online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: A Suspenseful Dinner Party
The Invitation centers around Will (Logan Marshall-Green), who is invited to a dinner party hosted by his ex-wife Eden (Tammy Blanchard) and her new husband David (Michiel Huisman). The event takes place in their lavish home in the Hollywood Hills, and Will, along with his new girlfriend Kira (Emayatzy Corinealdi), attends the gathering with mixed emotions.
As the evening progresses, the atmosphere becomes increasingly tense and unsettling. Will becomes increasingly suspicious of the hosts and their guests, as well as the peculiar behavior of Eden and David. The dinner party, which initially seemed like a chance to reconnect and find closure, soon reveals darker undertones and hidden agendas.
The film builds suspense through its gradual unraveling of secrets and mounting paranoia. As Will’s fears intensify, the true nature of the gathering is revealed, leading to a shocking and climactic confrontation.
Character Performances: Complex and Engaging
Logan Marshall-Green as Will
Logan Marshall-Green delivers a standout performance as Will, the film’s protagonist. Marshall-Green’s portrayal captures Will’s emotional turmoil and growing sense of unease. His performance effectively conveys the character’s inner conflict and paranoia, adding depth to the film’s suspenseful narrative.
Marshall-Green’s ability to convey vulnerability and anxiety anchors the film’s tension and provides a relatable perspective for viewers. His performance is central to the film’s exploration of grief and trust.
Tammy Blanchard as Eden
Tammy Blanchard plays Eden, Will’s ex-wife, with a blend of warmth and underlying menace. Blanchard’s portrayal captures Eden’s complexity as she navigates her role as a host and her complicated past with Will. Her performance adds layers to the film’s exploration of relationships and emotional manipulation.
Blanchard’s ability to convey both charm and subtle menace contributes to the film’s building tension and sense of dread.
Michiel Huisman as David
Michiel Huisman portrays David, Eden’s new husband, with a charismatic and enigmatic presence. Huisman’s performance adds to the film’s sense of mystery, as David’s intentions and motivations become increasingly suspect. His portrayal provides a contrast to Will’s growing paranoia, heightening the film’s suspense.
Emayatzy Corinealdi as Kira
Emayatzy Corinealdi plays Kira, Will’s new girlfriend, with a grounded and empathetic performance. Corinealdi’s portrayal adds a sense of normalcy and support to Will’s character, contrasting with the unsettling atmosphere of the dinner party. Her role is integral to the film’s emotional dynamics and contributes to the unfolding tension.
Direction and Cinematography: Creating an Atmosphere of Tension
Karyn Kusama’s direction in The Invitation is characterized by its meticulous build-up of suspense and psychological tension. Kusama’s approach emphasizes the slow unraveling of the plot and the psychological impact of the characters’ interactions.
The cinematography, by Eduard Grau, plays a key role in creating the film’s tense and claustrophobic atmosphere. The use of lighting, camera angles, and framing contributes to the sense of unease and suspense. The film’s setting—a grand but isolated home—enhances the feeling of entrapment and amplifies the growing tension.
Kusama’s direction and Grau’s cinematography work together to create a film that is both visually and emotionally engaging, maintaining a sense of dread and uncertainty throughout.
Themes: Grief, Paranoia, and Social Dynamics
The Invitation explores several themes, including grief, paranoia, and the dynamics of social interactions. The film examines how personal trauma and unresolved emotions can influence relationships and perceptions. Will’s suspicions and emotional reactions are framed by his recent loss and the strained history with Eden.
The theme of paranoia is central to the film, as Will’s growing distrust of the hosts and guests heightens the sense of impending danger. The film delves into the impact of past traumas on present interactions and the difficulty of discerning genuine intentions in a high-stress environment.
Additionally, The Invitation explores the complexities of social dynamics and the impact of personal history on current relationships. The film’s exploration of trust and manipulation adds depth to its suspenseful narrative.
Critical Reception: A Compelling and Thought-Provoking Thriller
The Invitation received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its suspenseful storytelling and psychological depth. The film was noted for its ability to create a tense and engaging atmosphere, as well as the strong performances of its cast.
Critics highlighted the film’s slow-burn approach and the effective use of suspense to build tension. The film’s exploration of complex themes, combined with its well-crafted narrative, contributed to its positive reception.
Some critics found the film’s pacing to be deliberate and its climax to be intense, but overall, The Invitation was regarded as a compelling and thought-provoking thriller that successfully engages and challenges its audience.
Where to Watch The Invitation Online: Streaming and Rental Options in the U.S.
For those interested in watching The Invitation online, several platforms offer the film for streaming or rental in the U.S. Here’s where you can find it:
1. Amazon Prime Video
The Invitation is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rentals typically start at $3.99, while purchases are available for around $12.99 in HD. Amazon Prime provides a convenient platform for streaming on various devices.
2. Apple TV (iTunes)
The film can be rented for $3.99 or purchased for $12.99 in HD on Apple TV (formerly iTunes). Apple’s platform offers a seamless experience across Apple devices.
3. Google Play Movies & YouTube
The Invitation is available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies and YouTube. Rentals start at $3.99, and purchases are around $12.99. Both platforms are accessible on a wide range of devices, providing flexibility for viewers.
4. Vudu
Vudu provides The Invitation for rental and purchase, with rental prices beginning at $3.99 and purchases available for approximately $12.99. Vudu’s high-definition streaming options ensure a quality viewing experience.
5. Microsoft Store
The Microsoft Store offers digital rental and purchase options for The Invitation. Rentals start at $3.99, and purchases are available for around $12.99. The Microsoft Store supports various devices for easy access.
Conclusion: A Tense and Engaging Psychological Thriller
The Invitation (2016) is a gripping psychological thriller that effectively combines suspense, emotion, and social commentary. With its strong performances, meticulous direction, and atmospheric cinematography, the film offers a compelling and unsettling viewing experience.
Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers or seeking a film that delves into the complexities of human relationships and paranoia, The Invitation provides an engaging and thought-provoking cinematic journey. With multiple streaming and rental options available in the U.S., watching this film is both convenient and rewarding.
