Searching for a couple good netflix movies The Invitation Starring: Logan Marshall, Emayatzy Corinealdi, Aidan Lovecamp. Directed by Karyn Kusama Written by Phil Hay and Matt Manfridi I fully expected to hate this film, the writers responsible for lovely things such as Ride Along and Ride Along Two: Ride Harder(I think?) didn't exactly spark my interest in the film. There's been a buzz about it so I decided to give it a go and I'm quite happy that I did. A guy and his current girlfriend get invited to a dinner party along with all his old friends. After the death of their child the ex left him for somebody else in her grief counseling program. The premise is shaky at best and that's part of what makes the film so good, it solidifies with every minute. Quite frankly the writing is brilliant and coming from the guys who brought you the "clash of the titans." remake this is nothing short of incredible. It's a tense little flick that explodes in a dramatic albeit predictable way but, it's the main actor who really shines. Turning the horror trope of a hysterical woman not being believed gets turned around and that alone garnered my respect. It's the end that really seals the deal however, making all the little things about the film I disliked seem obsolete. There's a little gore but, it looks realistic enough and the "Jesus just shoot him!!!!" moments are pretty nil. It was in general a well thought out spooky little flick, and holy crap guys, the end. Like, really, the end is awesome. It does have some draw backs in the pacing but, nothing so bad as to want to turn it off. 90 minuets not wasted.
I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in this House Starring: Ruth Wilson Written and Directed by Oz Perkins(Osgood Perkins on Netflix) Written and Directed by son of horror alumni Anthony Perkins (norman bates for those who don't know.) This story of a timid hospice nurse who goes to live with an aged horror writer during her last days in what appears to be a haunted house. This film is superbly unique, a bit Shirley Jackson and a bit Edger Allen Poe its American gothic at its best. The acting is far above what you expect from a horror film especially from actress Ruth Wilson who is predominantly the only actress on the screen. It's a creepy piece of art turning a simple over done idea into something elegant and beautiful. I've watched this movie over and over still learning and uncovering little tid bits about the main character and her plight. This is by far the best ghost story movie I have seen in years and those out who feel The Conjuring and it's other Hollywood denizens to be too cheap and over bearing would love to see this film. It is a total game changer, spooky and beautiful, sad and engaging. If indeed an homage to his father than consider it a job well done.
