This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the movie being covered here wouldn’t exist.
Synopsis: Inspired by the classic theme park attraction, Walt Disney Picturesโ โHaunted Mansionโ is about a woman and her son who enlist a motley crew of so-called spiritual experts to help rid their home of supernatural squatters.
What lengths would you go to in order to help a stranger? Once upon a time, this wouldn’t be a question. There was a time when helping someone in need would be done with no hesitation. From giving someone a ride, fixing a flat tire, and carrying groceries, to helping someone fight ghosts, helping came easy. However, we now live in a disingenuous world rife with scams, traps, and those who take advantage of others. Fortunately, there is more positivity that permeates and outweighs all of the negativity, the bad is always just way louder. But you do have to be more cautious than ever before. Furthermore, never let darkness dim your light. Your flame is someone else’s beacon of hope.
“This could change the course of your entire life.”
If the house is gigantic but the price isn’t, there’s probably more than a little wrong with it. Directed by Justin Simien, Haunted Mansion is a soulful spooky spectacular. This supernatural synergetic story is more than meets the eye. Based on the iconic ride and a remake of 2003’s The Haunted Mansion, this contemporary version’s performances and depth are what really make the script come to life. From its huge amounts of heart, surprisingly haunting scares, and heaps of humor, this ghastly good time is a thrilling ride for the whole family.
Now, you’re probably wondering if this movie is appropriate for your children seeing that it has a PG-13 rating. Well, like most things it depends on the child. I brought my 11-year-old with me and he enjoyed himself. There were only a few things that I needed to add context to. On the flip side, there was another child that was a few years younger that was affected by the jump scares, but they quickly got over it. The spectacle looks great with multiple fantastic-looking ghosts and an eye-pleasing aesthetic. The story is interwoven in satisfying fashion with a nice balance of mansion lore and character arcs that may evoke tears. And it’s just creative enough that you can’t believe that this is all conceived from a theme park ride.
“This place is haunted!”
Like the original, the story is set in Louisiana with the Gracey name still present, however, in this go-around, the rhythm and mystical spirit of New Orleans flows through its veins. From the music and attire to watching a short line parade down the street, The Big Easy makes its presence known. Also, in this updated spectral tale, the evil entity that terrorizes the huge domicile doesn’t want a wife, it wants power. Not only does it want power, but it will lay to rest anyone who is in its way. Besides its eerie aspects, this is a story of grief, longing, and new beginnings. While humor is hiding around every corner like the stranded spirit of a caretaker, it is there to offset what is actually an emotionally heavy and diabolical narrative.
Haunted Mansion may not break any new ground conceptually, but its final product is a highly entertaining and slightly over-the-top theater experience. The production design is crisp, the wardrobe looks great, especially Tiffany Haddish’s costumes, and all of the jokes hit, even if a bit cheesy at times. There may be big blockbuster movies to choose from as of late, however, I believe this is the one that all ages can enjoy and benefit from. The film flows smoothly and is over before you know it. It may not be the first one you want to see but it’s one you don’t want to miss. Its rewatchability is high.
Pacing & Pop
This film moves at great paces as it establishes early on that the story will have just as many interpersonal moments as it does scary or comical ones. Just like a roller coaster, the film has thrilling and frightful drops but also it’s slower moments that build like an anticipatory incline headed for another drop. What popped for me was the film’s depth. What appears to be a simple ghost story on its surface, actually deals with heavy and complex themes that make this more than just a fun time.
Characters & Chemistry
Starring: LaKeith Stanfield, Tiffany Haddish, Owen Wilson, Danny DeVito, Rosario Dawson, Chase W.
Dillon, Daniel Levy, Hasan Minhaj with Jamie Lee Curtis and Jared Leto
Who knew this unlikely combination of actors would work so well? LaKeith Stanfield continues to impress with each outing. While this is very much an ensemble performance, whether or not he can lead a film should no longer be a question. The chemistry he has with Owen Wilson as the questionable Father Kent is hilarious. Stanfield’s natural cool laidback demeanor paired with the fast-talking charismatic persuasiveness of Owens is something we need more of. They make a great comedic duo. Rosario Dawson turns on the motherly charm as she attempts to make the best of a haunting situation. The supremely subtle romance that brews with her character is well done. Tiffany Haddish and Danny DeVito effortlessly bring the funny. Haddish steals almost every scene she’s in with humourous dialogue and energy while DeVito breaks up scenes with physical comedy. And last but not least, Chase W.
Dillon as Travis embodies the spirit of the quiet kids that often don’t get the shine they deserve. His arc with Stanfield’s Ben is something that great to see and I can definitely relate.
Haunted Mansion releases in theaters on July 28, 2023. Remain safe and follow your heart.
Rated: PG-13
Runtime: 2h 2m
Director: JUSTIN SIMIEN
Writer: KATIE DIPPOLD
Producers: DAN LIN, p.g.a., JONATHAN EIRICH, p.g.a
Executive Producers: NICK REYNOLDS, TOM PEITZMAN
Director of Photography: JEFFREY WALDRON
Production Design: DARREN GILFORD
Costume Design: JEFFREY KURLAND
Editor: PHILLIP J. BARTELL, ACE
Score: KRIS BOWERS
VFX Supervisor: EDWIN RIVERA
Haunted Mansion is a soulful spooky spectacular. This supernatural synergetic story is more than meets the eye. From its huge amounts of heart, surprisingly haunting scares, and heaps of humor, this ghastly good time is a thrilling ride for the whole family.
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GVN Rating 7
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User Ratings (1 Votes)
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