The Invitation (2016) Movie Review

 

“The Invitation” is a masterclass in suspense, a film that grips you from the first frame and refuses to let go until its chilling conclusion. Directed by Karyn Kusama, this psychological thriller takes the dinner-party-from-hell scenario to new heights, delivering a slow-burning narrative that culminates in a payoff worth the wait. Karyn Kusama who was also involved in XX horror anthology film.  She is also known for directing Jennifer’s Body and Aeon Flux.

The film’s premise is simple yet effective: Will (played by Logan Marshall-Green) attends a dinner party at his former home, hosted by his ex-wife Eden (Tammy Blanchard) and her new husband David (Michiel Huisman). As the evening progresses, the atmosphere shifts from cordial to unsettling, with Will becoming increasingly paranoid about the true intentions of the hosts.

Kusama’s direction is precise and calculated, allowing the tension to simmer until it reaches a boiling point. The storytelling is equally balanced, with a script that divides action and development between the characters, regardless of gender. This approach not only adds depth to the narrative but also ensures that each character contributes to the mounting suspense.

The cast delivers performances that are both nuanced and powerful. Marshall-Green portrays Will’s haunted demeanor with a subtlety that draws the audience into his psyche, while Blanchard’s portrayal of Eden is both enigmatic and unnerving. The supporting cast, including Emayatzy Corinealdi as Kira, Will’s girlfriend, adds layers to the story, creating a dynamic and believable group of friends with a shared, complicated history.

One of the film’s strengths is its ability to maintain a sense of dread throughout. The setting, a sprawling mid-century-style house in the Hollywood Hills, becomes a character in itself, with its corridors and rooms providing a claustrophobic backdrop to the unfolding drama. The cinematography is deliberate, using shadows and light to enhance the film’s moody atmosphere.

The Invitation excels in its exploration of grief and loss, themes that serve as the emotional engine driving the plot. It’s a film that questions the lengths people will go to cope with pain and the extremes they’ll reach in the pursuit of closure. The psychological depth of the film is what sets it apart from other thrillers, making it a thought-provoking piece that stays with you long after the credits roll.

In the Nutshell

In conclusion, “The Invitation” is a triumph for Karyn Kusama, a film that showcases her ability to craft a taut, engaging thriller that is both intelligent and emotionally resonant. It’s a film that deserves to be experienced without spoilers, allowing its surprises to unfold naturally. For those who appreciate a thriller that prioritizes atmosphere and character development over cheap scares, “The Invitation” is a must-watch. I give 5 out 5 star.  It’s must-see movie.

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Genre: Mystery-thriller

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