Review of The Deep House (2021)
Synopsis:
The Deep House is a unique blend of the horror and thriller genres, directed by Julien Maury and Alexandre Bustillo. The film tells the story of Ben and Anna, a couple of social media influencers, played by James Jagger and Camille Rowe, who embark on an ambitious adventure to discover a sunken house deep within a remote French lake. The concept is enticing; the house, a relic of the past, is believed to be haunted and holds secrets that have long been buried.
Equipped with underwater cameras, diving equipment, and a sense of reckless curiosity, the couple descends into the depths of the lake, only to uncover the submerged property. Initially, the experience is thrilling and exhilarating, as they document their exploration for their online followers. However, their playful excursion quickly turns sinister. As they investigate the eerie house filled with unsettling artefacts and hints of a dark past, they unwittingly awaken something malevolent that lurks within the depths.
As the couple becomes ensnared in a relentless chase for survival, the claustrophobic setting intensifies the horror. They soon realise that the submerged house is not just a location but a sinister character of its own, leading them on a harrowing journey through fear and despair. As darkness envelops them, Ben and Anna are forced to confront not only the evil spirits that haunt the house but also their deepest fears and vulnerabilities, making for a gripping and emotionally charged horror experience.
Cast:
- James Jagger as Ben
- Camille Rowe as Anna
- Johann Myers as the local man
- Raphaël Cohen as the caretaker
- Mélanie Doutey as Clara (voice only)
- Clément Aïssa as Eric (voice only)
Review:
The Deep House distinguishes itself from typical horror fare with its innovative concept of an underwater haunted house. The film’s premise offers a fresh twist to a genre that can often feel recycled, and it entices audiences with the promise of a submerged space rich with history and supernatural mystery. This originality, however, is not the only element that draws viewers.
The cinematography deserves special mention. Underwater shots can often be visually challenging; however, the directors skillfully utilise the aquatic environment to create a sense of claustrophobia and disorientation. The eerie underwater hues, paired with the flickering shadows cast by the couple’s lights, contribute to an atmosphere saturated with tension. As the film progresses, the visual storytelling becomes increasingly striking, with the house itself becoming a character that looms over the audience both literally and metaphorically.
James Jagger and Camille Rowe deliver commendable performances that breathe life into their roles. Jagger presents Ben as the adventurous and somewhat reckless partner, enthusiastic about diving into the unknown, while Rowe’s Anna is more cautious, initially exhibiting reluctance before succumbing to the thrill of exploration. Their chemistry feels genuine, and it is easy to root for them as they navigate the abyssal waters. However, as the terror escalates, their performances delve deeper—reflecting the scale of fear and desperation one can only hope never to experience.
The supporting cast, though limited in number, also contribute to the film’s atmosphere. Johann Myers appears briefly as a local man who adds lore to the house’s history, further framing the narrative within the region’s folklore. While the core of the film relies significantly on the central couple, Myers’ involvement hints at the chilling backstory that permeates the house, enhancing its haunted allure.
A notable aspect of The Deep House is its commentary on social media culture. Ben and Anna’s motivations are critical to understanding the stakes of their situation. As influencers, their need for engaging content drives them into danger. This reflection on modern society’s obsession with likes and views offers a thought-provoking layer to the film while concurrently serving as a compelling narrative device.
However, the film is not without its flaws. While the first half unravels at a tantalising pace, the second half often feels overly convoluted. The supernatural elements, while intriguing, sometimes veer into the realm of cliché, relying on familiar tropes that can detract from the film’s originality. As the supernatural encounters escalate, certain sequences can evoke an eye roll rather than fear.
Moreover, the film’s pacing suffers at points. The constant tension, built skillfully in the beginning, tends to hit peaks and troughs that can disrupt the overall flow. Certain moments take a longer duration to develop than might be favourable, resulting in an occasional lull that halts the narrative momentum just as it should be racing towards its climax.
The sound design adds another layer to immerse the viewer in the film’s terrifying world. The subtle echoes of water, creaking wood, muffled voices, and disembodied whispers create a haunting auditory experience. The absence of music in some sequences, allowing the natural sounds of the setting to heighten tension, demonstrates a clever utilisation of sound in horror, enhancing feelings of isolation and dread.
Ultimately, The Deep House is an ambitious effort that showcases creativity within the horror genre. The film’s unique premise, combined with strong performances and commendable visual presentation, begins with a captivating narrative filled with potential. While it falters in certain areas, particularly concerning pacing and reliance on cliché horror tropes, the film’s central themes and atmospheric qualities invite viewers to confront their fears in both a literal and metaphorical sense.
As a horror flick, this film might not redefine the genre, but it successfully manages to trap audiences in its chilling embrace, echoing the depths of its perpetrated house and the horrors that lie within.
In conclusion, The Deep House is a commendable addition to the horror-thriller genre that captivates with its originality and strong visuals. While it stumbles in pacing and relies on familiar tropes, it maintains an engaging narrative that keeps viewers invested.
Score: 7/10
