Laurynomaly

The first psychological thriller movie of 2009 worth paying multiplex prices for at a student discount, The Uninvited features chillingly supernatural and well made up apparitions, a sharp cast, and a breathtaking plot that reminds you that remakes can be done right. Adapted from the Korean horror film Janghwa Hongryeon, the story centers around a teenager named Anna who is forced to adapt to her new family situation after an accident that changed her life. Attempting to recover from the tragic loss of her mother, she spends time in a psychological facility only to be released back to her party-go-lucky sister and confidante, a grieving yet insensitive father, and his father’s mysterious new girlfriend. When she returns to her astoundingly beautiful waterfront residence, she feels something terribly wrong within the house. Convinced that her father’s new girlfriend, Rachel, is the troubling presence, she desperately tries to put together the events that happened the night of the accident and uncover just who Rachel is. As the plot unfolds, the musical score peaks, and the ghosts reveal themselves, you’ll find yourself curling up in your date’s jacket to hide from the suspense.

The actors put on solid performances with Emily Browning taking the lead as adolescent Anna, who gives the strange-girl look a whole new level of attractiveness. The emotion in her eyes will astonish you. David Strathairn offers the well-composed delivery of an experienced actor in his role as Anna’s aloof father. His authoritative voice will make you both antagonize and sympathize with his character. Elizabeth Banks’s inflection and control give her the seasoned acting edge to pull off the coy and conniving Rachel. Arielle Kibbel seems to be the only off-beat actress and offers a simple and dry performance in the teenage character of Alex, but her role is still believable. Kevin McNulty, Jesse Moss, and Dean P. Gibson also play their substantial roles well.

The combined efforts of a strong cast and solid production crew make this a groundbreaking mainstream full-length film debut for the Brothers Guard. The cinematography gives turn-by-turn directions to all of our future filmmakers on how to tell a story by simply using precise editing techniques and cut scenes. The lighting and framing accent the suspenseful tone of the film. The thriller composition veteran Christopher Young orchestrates yet another hide-under-the-blankets-chilling musical score.

Be open and inviting to the uncertainty of The Uninvited. Pay close attention to the symbolism to see how it all comes together or you will find yourself wanting to see it a second or third time.