Movie Review: The House of the Devil (2009)
Synopsis:
‘Susan (Jocelin Donahue), a penniless college student, is desperately in need of cash to pay for her impending rent. A flyer advertising a babysitting job leads her to the home of the mysterious and unsettling couple, Mr. and Mrs. Ulman (Tom Noonan and Mary Woronov). Though initially hesitant, Susan is drawn into the promise of quick and easy money, despite the insistence from her friend, Samantha (Greta Gerwig), that she avoid the terrifying tales that surround the Ulmans’ imposing house.
Set in 1980s Connecticut during a lunar eclipse, the film expertly harkens back to the era of classic horror, complete with a slow-burning atmosphere and nostalgic references. As night descends, Susan arrives at the Ulman residence, only to discover that the babysitting job is not what it seems. The couple reveals that their "child" is merely a cover for a disturbing twist involving sinister occult practices. What begins as a routine job gradually spirals into a harrowing nightmare filled with tension and dread as Susan finds herself trapped within the walls of the sinister house, confronting unspeakable horrors that put her life at peril.*
List of Actors and their Characters:
- Jocelin Donahue as Samantha
- Tom Noonan as Mr. Ulman
- Mary Woronov as Mrs. Ulman
- Greta Gerwig as Lisa
- AJ Bowen as Victor
- Dee Wallace as the Townie
Review:
The House of the Devil is a film that stands apart in the contemporary landscape of horror, embodying a vivid appreciation for the aesthetics and storytelling techniques of the 1980s horror genre. Written and directed by Ti West, it wonderfully encapsulates the feeling of dread and suspense while capturing the essence of retro horror films. From the very first frame, the audience is immersed in an atmosphere that pays homage to beloved classics whilst maintaining a flavour distinctly its own.
Ti West adopts a deliberate pacing that may lull some viewers initially; however, this slow-burning tension is, in fact, one of the film’s greatest strengths. The audience is allowed to digest the surroundings and the characters’ motivations before being thrust into a cacophony of fear. The film’s structure is interwoven with a sense of inevitability, leading to a climax that is both shocking and thought-provoking.
Jocelin Donahue delivers a compelling performance as Susan, a resourceful but naive protagonist yearning for independence amidst financial pressures. The complexity of her character is laid bare as she oscillates between self-assuredness and vulnerability, conjuring a relatable persona in a realm of escalating horror. The film makes it easy to sympathise with her plight, rendering the moments of her distress all the more impactful.
Tom Noonan and Mary Woronov, playing the Ulmans, create an imposing presence that steadily unravels into unnerving menace. Noonan’s portrayal of Mr. Ulman is particularly chilling, evoking a sense of dread simmering beneath a placid exterior. He embodies the archetype of the eccentric host whose true intentions remain shrouded in secrecy. Woronov, meanwhile, complements Noonan’s performance wonderfully, infusing a layer of bizarre charisma that unsettles the atmosphere within their home.
Greta Gerwig shines in a supporting role as Lisa, offering levity amidst the film’s overall seriousness. Her charm and wit add depth to the dynamics surrounding Susan, intensifying the ambience of unease as the film transitions from a social setting into sheer horror. Similarly, AJ Bowen’s character, Victor, presents a cryptic perspective, further amplifying the disquiet that circles the Ulman household.
The film’s cinematography is meticulously crafted, employing unique techniques reminiscent of the time period. By utilising lighting and grainy visuals akin to 1980s horror flicks, the film exudes authenticity. The design choices enriching the interiors of the house are beautifully ornate yet deeply unsettling. The claustrophobic atmosphere enhances the sense of dread the film offers, ensuring that viewers feel every creak of wood and rustle of leaves as the night unfolds.
Another noteworthy aspect of The House of the Devil is its iconic sound design. The eerie score, coupled with the subtle atmospheric sounds, accentuates the tension and helps build a palpable sense of dread. Viewers are lulled into a false sense of security only to be jolted awake by sudden, harrowing moments. This carefully crafted aural landscape draws the audience into a state of unease, reflecting the turmoil that Susan experiences as the night progresses.
Thematically, the film grapples with concepts of trust, isolation, and the unseen consequences of seemingly innocuous decisions. Susan’s choice to accept the babysitting job is tied into broader conversations about the vulnerabilities young women face when navigating societal expectations and seeking independence. The film unfurls a critique of that desire for autonomy, revealing how quickly circumstances can spiral out of control.
Furthermore, The House of the Devil extends a subtle commentary on the commodification of fear; the way in which society exploits horror for entertainment purposes. The film cleverly intersperses references to pop culture horror tropes while simultaneously thoughtfully subverting them, crafting a dual narrative that thrives in its meta-awareness.
It’s important to note that the film does take its time to reach its climax, which has received mixed reviews. Some viewers may find the build-up excessive, yearning for a quicker descent into horror. However, for aficionado fans of the genre who appreciate the slow burn technique, the film rewards patience with a conclusion that leaves a lasting impression.
Ultimately, The House of the Devil flourishes by embracing an aesthetic of restraint and composition. The denouement, though brief, is visceral and raw, offering a climax rife with both shock and contemplation. The final scenes invite the audience to grapple with their own responses to the events witnessed, leaving them pondering long after the credits roll.
In conclusion, The House of the Devil is a remarkable revival of 1980s horror sensibilities, deftly blending nostalgic filmmaking with modern narrative techniques. Ti West proves himself a master of tension and atmosphere, delicately weaving a tale that resonates with both emotional gravity and visceral horror. The film is a tribute to an era long passed while remaining relevant and engaging for contemporary audiences. With its stellar performances, focused direction, and haunting atmosphere, it is a film that stirs the heart of any horror enthusiast.
Rating: 9/10
