The Review (Spoiler Free)

“The House at the End of Time,” a Venezuelan film directed by Alejandro Hidalgo, stands out as a unique entry in the horror genre. Released in 2013, it has garnered attention for its intricate plot and emotional depth, distinguishing itself from the typical jump-scare laden offerings.

The story revolves around Dulce, a mother who is convicted of murdering her husband and son in their mysterious house. After serving thirty years in prison, she returns to the scene of the crime under house arrest, only to be confronted by the same supernatural occurrences that led to her incarceration.

What sets this film apart is its narrative structure. It’s a masterful blend of horror, thriller, and mystery, with a touch of science fiction. The non-linear storytelling requires the audience’s attention as the events unfold in a circular fashion, revealing the truth in layers. The second half of the movie mirrors the first, but with new context that shifts the perspective dramatically.

The film’s strength lies in its ability to maintain suspense and intrigue, leading viewers through a labyrinth of time and memory. It challenges the audience to piece together the puzzle, slowly unraveling the tragic events that have befallen Dulce and her family.

The performances, particularly by the lead actress Ruddy Rodríguez, are poignant and grounded, lending credibility to the supernatural elements of the story. The emotional weight she carries as Dulce is palpable, making her journey our own.

Critics have praised “The House at the End of Time” for its creativity and clever twists. It’s been compared to films like “Oculus,” as both movies play with the concept of time and perception. However, some reviews have pointed out that the film’s tone can feel inconsistent, oscillating between darkly supernatural and almost melodramatic.

Despite these criticisms, the film has been lauded for its originality and has been recognized as Venezuela’s highest-grossing film. It’s a testament to Hidalgo’s skill as a filmmaker and his ability to craft a story that is both intellectually engaging and emotionally resonant.

Spoiler Ending (Spoiler Alert!)

The pivotal twist in the story is that the house is not haunted; instead, it serves as a time portal that enables Dulce to travel through time. The portal activates on November 11th at 11:11 pm, allowing Dulce to journey to both the past and the future, a fact hinted at throughout the movie.

We observe Dulce’s life unfold across three different timelines: firstly, before the tragic accident that claimed one of her sons; secondly, after this devastating event; and finally, as an elderly woman, 30 years later.

Ultimately, the film centers on Dulce’s attempts to save her two sons. Tragically, she fails to prevent the younger son, Rodrigo, from dying in an accident. However, she succeeds in saving her elder son, Leo, on two occasions. Initially, she rescues him from their father, who, in a misguided rage over Rodrigo’s death, attempts to kill Leo. Later, Dulce saves Leo by transporting him to the future, where a cure exists for his rare, previously untreatable disease.

Additionally, the priest who offers her assistance is revealed to be an adult version of Leo’s childhood best friend. He plays a significant role in helping the young Leo adapt and find a home, as Dulce is too elderly to care for him. Ultimately, Leo is adopted by Rodrigo’s girlfriend, who has also matured. In the film’s conclusion, we learn that Leo lives to an old age because an elderly Leo from the future travels back in time to reassure his mother of his well-being.

In the Nutshell

“The House at the End of Time” is a film that offers more than just scares; it provides a thought-provoking experience that stays with you long after the credits roll. It’s a must-watch for fans of the genre looking for something that breaks the mold and delivers a story with heart and complexity. For those willing to navigate its intricate narrative, the film is a rewarding and haunting exploration of fate, love, and redemption.  I give 5 out of 5 stars. 

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Genre:  Haunted house

You can watch on: 

• Amazon
• DVD/Blueray
• Tubi

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