The Review (Spoiler Free)
“Muirhouse,” a film released in 2012, delves into the found-footage horror genre with a unique setting and premise. The movie follows author Phillip Muirhouse, portrayed by Iain P.F. McDonald, who is left alone in the notoriously haunted ‘Monte Cristo’ homestead. The plot thickens as he breaks the cardinal rule of ghost hunting: never be alone.
The film’s strength lies in its ability to build suspense and create an atmosphere of dread without relying on the typical tropes of the genre. The absence of shaky camera work and the clear sound design contribute to a more immersive experience for the audience. The narrative unfolds logically, allowing viewers to piece together the story in their minds, reminiscent of the genre’s pioneer, “The Blair Witch Project.”
However, “Muirhouse” has received mixed reviews. Some viewers appreciate the tension and the realistic portrayal of a ghost hunter’s experience, while others find the lack of a concrete plot and visible apparitions a missed opportunity for a truly terrifying experience. The film’s IMDb rating stands at 4.1/10, reflecting the divided opinions of its audience.
One of the featured reviews on IMDb praises the film for not succumbing to the distractions of wobbly cameras and for maintaining excellent sound quality. The reviewer also commends the suspenseful nature of the film, which allows the audience to construct the plot in their own minds. Another review from Flickfeast highlights “Muirhouse” as a very good horror movie, noting its atmosphere, jumps, and professional presentation.
In conclusion, “Muirhouse” is a film that may polarize viewers. It offers a refreshing take on the found-footage style, focusing on building tension and atmosphere rather than explicit scares. While it may not satisfy those looking for a more traditional horror experience, it stands out for its attempt to deliver a more psychologically driven and realistic portrayal of a paranormal investigation. Whether “Muirhouse” is a hit or a miss depends largely on the viewer’s expectations and preferences in the horror genre.
Spoiler Ending (Spoiler Alert)
“Muirhouse” is a movie that begins with its ending. It opens with Phillip Muirhouse wandering dazed and shirtless along a road, clutching a small knife. When a police officer stops to investigate, Muirhouse attacks him and is subsequently arrested.
The film then rewinds to the start. We meet Phillip Muirhouse, a paranormal expert and author, who ironically advises other investigators never to explore a haunted house alone. Predictably, he finds himself alone in what is said to be Australia’s most haunted house.
His investigation initially yields only minor disturbances: noises, slamming doors, and shifting furniture. However, as the night progresses, the paranormal activity escalates, and Muirhouse becomes increasingly terrified.
In the film’s climax, an unseen force traps him inside a wardrobe. The audience is left to ponder what became of Phillip Muirhouse and how this connects to the opening scene of him on the road. The most plausible theories are that he either lost his sanity from fear or was possessed by a spirit from the house. Both outcomes are somewhat unsatisfying and highlight the dangers of solitary investigations, a lesson Muirhouse himself fails to heed.
In the Nutshell
Muirhouse has potential to be good found footage horror but fail short. But if you are fan of found footage horror, give it a shot. I give 3 out of 5 stars.
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Genre: Found Footage
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