The Invitation (2022) spoiler free review

What to get when you mix Get Out, Ready or Not, Dracula, and Crimson Peak? The supernatural horror film The Invitation. Directed by Jessica M. Thompson (The Light of the Moon) the film feels just like that: a mix of well known horror movies but more mainstream. Blair Butler wrote the script inspired by Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula.

After the death of her mother and having no other known relatives, Evie takes a DNA test and discovers a long-lost cousin she never knew she had. Invited by her newfound family to a lavish wedding in the English countryside, Evie’s at first seduced by the sexy aristocratic host. However, she’s soon thrust into a nightmare of survival as she uncovers twisted secrets about her family history and the unsettling intentions behind their sinful generosity.

Official plot

The cast includes Nathalie Emmanuel (Game of Thrones) as Evie, Thomas Doherty (Descendants) as Walter, Stephanie Corneliussen (Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters) as Viktoria, Alana Boden (Uncharted) as Lucy, Courtney Taylor (Prom Night III) as Grace, Hugh Skinner (Les Misérables) as Oliver, Sean Pertwee (Gotham) as Mr. Fields.

My opinion

The Invitation is a surprisingly enjoyable supernatural horror film. With a duration of 1 hour and 44 minutes the plot while predictable is fast paced and entertaining. The majority of the film takes place on a mansion in the English countryside giving the story a gothic romance atmosphere. The costumes aline to the aristocracy of the characters to a certain extent, since the elegance and old money behavior is superficial and not believable. The soundtrack, on the other hand, fits perfectly with the scenes and story.

The romance that’s supposed to happen between Emmanuel and Doherty characters also feels superficial. There’s not enough development to feel a spark between them. The film relies heavily in the darkness, sudden loud sounds, and jump scares as a way to scare the audience but turns ineffective since they’re predictable. The biggest mistake of the film was showing too much on the trailers taking away the element of surprise when the family reveal their real intentions.

If you have nothing to do this weekend go to your closest movie theater and enjoy a supernatural horror film, regardless of it fails you can still have a good time.