“Visions” (2015) Movie Review: A Supernatural Thriller with Psychological Depth
Introduction
“Visions,” directed by Kevin Greutert and released in 2015, is a supernatural thriller that intertwines psychological horror with a chilling mystery. Starring Isla Fisher, Anson Mount, and Gillian Jacobs, the film explores themes of trauma, motherhood, and the unseen forces that haunt us. This review delves into the plot, performances, visual style, and where to stream or rent “Visions” in the United States.
Plot Summary
The story follows Eveleigh Maddox (Isla Fisher), who moves to a secluded vineyard with her husband David (Anson Mount) after a traumatic car accident. Eveleigh is pregnant and looking forward to a fresh start, but she soon begins experiencing disturbing visions and unexplainable phenomena in their new home.
As the visions become more frequent and terrifying, Eveleigh grows increasingly paranoid and desperate to understand what is happening. Her friends and husband dismiss her concerns as stress and pregnancy-related hallucinations, but Eveleigh is convinced that something sinister is at play.
With the help of her friend Sadie (Gillian Jacobs) and a local psychic (Joanna Cassidy), Eveleigh delves into the history of the vineyard and uncovers a dark secret that threatens her sanity and her unborn child. The film builds to a suspenseful climax as Eveleigh confronts the terrifying truth behind her visions.
Performance and Direction
Isla Fisher delivers a compelling performance as Eveleigh, effectively conveying her character’s fear, vulnerability, and determination. Fisher’s portrayal anchors the film, making Eveleigh’s journey both believable and emotionally engaging. Anson Mount provides solid support as David, capturing the tension between his desire to protect his wife and his skepticism of her experiences.
Gillian Jacobs adds depth to the film with her performance as Sadie, bringing a sense of warmth and loyalty to her character. Joanna Cassidy’s role as the psychic provides an intriguing layer to the story, adding to the film’s supernatural elements.
Director Kevin Greutert, known for his work on the “Saw” franchise, brings a keen sense of tension and atmosphere to “Visions.” His direction ensures that the film maintains a steady pace, gradually building suspense and delivering effective scares. Greutert skillfully balances the supernatural and psychological aspects of the story, creating a film that is both eerie and thought-provoking.
Cinematography and Special Effects
The cinematography by Michael Fimognari captures the picturesque yet isolating setting of the vineyard, using wide shots and natural lighting to enhance the film’s eerie atmosphere. The visual contrast between the serene landscape and the unsettling events within the house heightens the tension and sense of unease.
Special effects are used judiciously to create the ghostly visions and supernatural occurrences. The practical and digital effects blend seamlessly, adding to the film’s haunting and mysterious tone without overwhelming the narrative.
Streaming Availability
In the United States, “Visions” is available for streaming on various platforms. You can watch it on:
- Amazon Prime Video (with a subscription)
- Hulu
Rental and Purchase Options
For those who prefer to rent or purchase “Visions,” 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
“Visions” is a gripping supernatural thriller that combines psychological horror with a compelling mystery. With a strong lead performance from Isla Fisher and skillful direction by Kevin Greutert, the film offers a tense and engaging experience for fans of the genre. The atmospheric setting, effective scares, and emotional depth make “Visions” a standout entry in the realm of supernatural thrillers.
