The Messengers (2007) Movie Review: A Familiar yet Atmospheric Supernatural Thriller
Overview
Directed by the Pang Brothers, “The Messengers” (2007) is a supernatural horror film that stars Kristen Stewart, Dylan McDermott, Penelope Ann Miller, and John Corbett. The movie revolves around a family’s unsettling experiences after moving to a rural farmhouse in North Dakota. While the film relies on familiar horror tropes and does not offer many surprises, it benefits from a strong atmosphere and solid performances, particularly from a young Kristen Stewart.
Plot Summary
The film follows the Solomon family: Roy (Dylan McDermott), his wife Denise (Penelope Ann Miller), their teenage daughter Jess (Kristen Stewart), and their young son Ben (Evan and Theodore Turner). Seeking a fresh start after a traumatic incident, the family relocates from Chicago to a remote sunflower farm in North Dakota.
Soon after moving in, Jess begins to experience strange occurrences and sees ghostly apparitions. Ben, who is mute, also seems to be aware of the supernatural presence but cannot communicate his fears. Jess’s parents initially dismiss her concerns, attributing them to her troubled past.
As the paranormal activity escalates, Jess discovers the farm’s dark history involving the previous owners’ mysterious deaths. With the help of a local handyman, Burwell (John Corbett), Jess unravels the truth behind the haunting. The family must confront the malevolent spirits and uncover the secrets of their new home before it’s too late.
Performance and Direction
Kristen Stewart delivers a strong performance as Jess Solomon, effectively capturing the character’s vulnerability and determination. Stewart’s portrayal adds depth to the film, making Jess a sympathetic and relatable protagonist. Dylan McDermott and Penelope Ann Miller provide solid support as Jess’s parents, although their characters are somewhat underdeveloped.
John Corbett’s role as Burwell adds an element of intrigue to the story, with his character serving as both a helper and a mystery figure whose intentions are initially unclear.
The Pang Brothers, known for their work on the Asian horror hit “The Eye,” bring their atmospheric style to “The Messengers.” Their direction focuses on building tension through eerie visuals and unsettling sound design. While the film occasionally falls into predictable horror conventions, the directors manage to create a genuinely creepy atmosphere that keeps viewers engaged.
Visuals and Cinematography
The cinematography by David Geddes captures the isolation and desolation of the rural farmhouse setting. The use of natural lighting and shadow enhances the film’s eerie atmosphere, making the house itself feel like a character in the story. The sunflower fields provide a visually striking backdrop that contrasts with the dark events unfolding in the home.
The visual effects are used sparingly but effectively, with the ghostly apparitions and supernatural occurrences being subtly integrated into the film. The practical effects and makeup contribute to the overall sense of dread without relying heavily on CGI, which helps maintain the film’s realistic feel.
Themes and Relevance
“The Messengers” explores themes of trauma, family bonds, and the impact of past events on the present. The film delves into the psychological effects of Jess’s previous experiences and her struggle to be believed by her family. It also touches on the idea of confronting one’s fears and the importance of trust and communication within a family.
While the narrative does not break new ground in the horror genre, it effectively uses these themes to drive the story and develop the characters. The film’s focus on a family dealing with both supernatural and personal challenges adds a layer of emotional depth to the horror elements.
Streaming and Availability
For viewers in the United States, “The Messengers” is available for streaming on various platforms. You can watch it on Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and other streaming services. The film is also available for rent or purchase on digital platforms such as Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Vudu, and YouTube Movies.
Conclusion
“The Messengers” is a familiar but atmospheric supernatural thriller that benefits from strong performances, particularly from Kristen Stewart, and effective direction by the Pang Brothers. While the film relies on well-worn horror tropes and does not offer many surprises, its creepy atmosphere and engaging visual style make it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre.
The film’s themes of trauma and family dynamics add emotional depth to the story, making it more than just a series of scares. Overall, “The Messengers” is an enjoyable, if not groundbreaking, entry in the supernatural horror genre that provides a few genuine chills and solid entertainment.
