The Night House, a horror film directed by David Bruckner, plunges into the depths of human emotions, exploring the darker aspects of grief and supernatural forces. The story follows Beth Parchin, a widow grappling with the sudden death of her husband by suicide, and the cryptic note he left behind. As Beth navigates her grief, she uncovers secrets about her husband’s past and the mysterious forces haunting her.
The film’s starting point was a rejected Hellraiser reboot pitch by writers Ben Collins and Luke Piotrowski, who were drawn to the concept of exploring Julia’s character from the original Hellraiser. However, their pitch was met with resistance, and the project was abandoned. Instead, they used the same concept as the foundation for The Night House, produced by David S. Goyer.
The film delves into the idea of a double life, showcasing a reverse copy of Beth’s home in the woods and inexplicable phenomena that blur the lines between reality and the supernatural. The eerie, isolated house serves as a reflection of Beth’s emotional state, as she struggles with the loss of her husband and the revelation that he was leading a separate life.
A Still From The Night House (Photo: The Night House)
Grief is a popular theme in horror movies, and The Night House is no exception. The film’s portrayal of Beth’s grief, guilt, and anger is relatable, and her descent into madness is terrifying. The supernatural forces that she encounters are equally unsettling, adding to the sense of unease and uncertainty.
The Night House stands out in its ability to subvert expectations. The film’s first two acts set up a story about death and grief, but the twist in the third act adds a new layer of complexity, revealing that the “nothing” Owen spoke of was not just a metaphor for death but a literal entity that threatens Beth’s existence. This twist is both unexpected and terrifying, raising questions about the nature of love and protection.
The film’s unique take on grief and the supernatural is a must-watch for horror fans and those who enjoy a thought-provoking narrative. The Night House is available to stream on Prime Video in the U.S., offering a chilling exploration of the human psyche and the supernatural.
