The Vault (2017) Movie Review: A Tense Heist with a Supernatural Twist
The Vault, directed by Dan Bush and released in 2017, is a heist-horror film that combines the elements of a bank robbery thriller with supernatural horror. Starring Francesca Eastwood, Taryn Manning, and James Franco, the movie attempts to deliver suspense and chills through its unique genre blend. While it succeeds in creating an eerie atmosphere, the film’s execution and character development leave something to be desired.
Plot Overview
The story centers on sisters Leah (Francesca Eastwood) and Vee Dillon (Taryn Manning), who, along with their brother Michael (Scott Haze), orchestrate a bank robbery to settle a significant debt. They believe their meticulously planned heist will be quick and straightforward, but things take a dark turn when they are forced to open a mysterious, hidden vault in the basement.
Inside the vault, they find more than just money. The basement is haunted by the spirits of victims from a previous, brutal robbery that took place years ago. As the supernatural entities begin to terrorize the robbers, the siblings must navigate their way out, battling both the living and the dead.
Performances
Francesca Eastwood and Taryn Manning deliver solid performances as the determined yet desperate sisters. Eastwood, as Leah, portrays a character driven by necessity but not without a conscience, while Manning’s Vee is more volatile and impulsive. Their dynamic captures the tension and urgency of their situation. James Franco, as the enigmatic bank assistant manager Ed Maas, provides a subdued yet pivotal performance, adding an air of mystery to the unfolding events.
Direction and Cinematography
Director Dan Bush creates a claustrophobic and tense atmosphere, crucial for a film that relies on both heist and horror elements. The cinematography by Andrew Shulkind effectively uses low lighting and tight spaces to evoke a sense of dread and confinement. The bank’s dark, labyrinthine basement serves as an ominous setting, heightening the film’s suspense.
Script and Execution
The screenplay, written by Dan Bush and Conal Byrne, presents an intriguing premise but struggles with pacing and character development. The initial setup of the heist is engaging, drawing viewers into the action. However, as the supernatural elements are introduced, the film’s momentum falters. The dialogue, while functional, often feels clichéd and lacks depth, which impacts the audience’s connection to the characters.
Themes and Symbolism
The Vault explores themes of desperation, family loyalty, and the consequences of past actions. The haunted vault serves as a metaphor for the hidden secrets and unresolved traumas that can haunt individuals and families. The film also touches on the idea that greed and violence inevitably lead to ruin, regardless of one’s intentions.
Critical Reception
The Vault received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. Some praised the film’s unique blend of genres and its atmospheric tension, while others criticized its uneven pacing and lack of character development. The film’s ambition to merge heist and horror elements is commendable, but its execution does not always live up to its potential.
Streaming Services and Availability
For those interested in watching The Vault, the film is available for streaming on various platforms. In the United States, it can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and iTunes. These options provide convenient access for viewers who wish to experience this genre-blending thriller.
Conclusion
The Vault is a film that stands out for its attempt to merge the heist and horror genres. While it does succeed in creating a tense and eerie atmosphere, its execution falls short in terms of pacing and character development. The performances of Francesca Eastwood, Taryn Manning, and James Franco help anchor the film, but they are not enough to fully compensate for the screenplay’s shortcomings.
For fans of both heist and horror films, The Vault offers a unique, if somewhat flawed, viewing experience. Its blend of suspense and supernatural elements provides moments of genuine tension and intrigue, making it a worthwhile watch for those interested in genre hybrids. However, viewers seeking a more polished narrative and deeper character exploration may find themselves wanting more.
