The Invitation Review

The Invitation (2015)

IMDb genre: Drama/Horror/Mystery

Director: Karyn Kusama

Writer: Phil Hay, Matt Manfredi

Starring: Logan Marshall-Green, Emayatzy Corinealdi, Michiel Huisman

I haven’t really heard much hype for this movie, and when I told some friends I’d watched it one of them said it was ‘underrated’ which I think is spot on, and I think that’s because it definitely won’t be to everyone’s taste. From me personally though I think it’s practically perfect.

This movie is the very definition of a slow-burner; up until the last twenty minutes or so we’re more or less just watching some friends have a relaxed party. However, the eerie score and sublime camerawork mean that there is always a claustrophobic sense of dread even when all is seemingly well. The stunning script ensures that the interactions feel natural and gives us just enough information to pique our interest but not enough to work everything out so we’re left not knowing who to trust. This feeling of distrust is also achieved as the acting is faultless and the small tensions in the group aren’t overplayed but add to what’s already been established.

As well as creating tension this film is highly emotional in its portrayal of grief and the lengths people will go to to ease their pain which builds to the gut-wrenching ending which I still keep thinking about a few days on.

The only criticism I really have about this movie is that the tension is built for a long time but once we find out who is right there’s some good gore but it all seems to be over very quickly. That may be for the best though as it doesn’t just turn into a gore fest.

So, great script, acting and score I think you should check it out.

General Opinion: 

         

 Scare Factor:  

I think this is more thriller than horror in terms of scares but it has its moments and the ending packs a terrifying and poignant punch.

Gore: 

Probably not a film for gore freaks but the gore is used well to enhance the tone that’s already been established.

Clowns: 

 There are some jokes, all credit to the writers that the reunion of friends feels very natural, but there’s always a sense of dread that means you’re not relaxed enough to be too amused.

In the UK you can now accept The Invitation (oh, I’m so witty) on Netflix or rent on Amazon Prime for £3.49.