Review: Housebound (2014)

When we talk about horror comedies, it's rare to find a movie that balances both genres without leaning too heavily on one at the expense of the other. Enter Housebound, a 2014 film from New Zealand that skillfully walks this tightrope. Directed by Gerard Johnstone, this movie takes the classic haunted house trope and infuses it with humor and a quirky twist. As a collector, this is one of those films that you want to have in your collection not only for its entertainment value but also for its unique blend of styles.

Plot Summary

The story follows Kylie Bucknell, a troubled young woman who finds herself under house arrest after a botched ATM robbery. Sentenced to live with her estranged mother, Miriam, Kylie is forced to return to her childhood home, a place she has little fondness for. Miriam, who is convinced their house is haunted, doesn't make things any easier for Kylie. Initially skeptical, Kylie soon experiences strange occurrences herself. The film cleverly unfolds as a mystery, keeping viewers guessing about whether the supernatural is at play or if there's a more mundane explanation. The plot's twists and turns are surprising, making it a joy to watch without giving away too much.

Performances

Morgana O'Reilly shines as Kylie, perfectly capturing her character's cynicism and gradual shift in perspective. O'Reilly's performance is both engaging and relatable, making Kylie a character that viewers can root for despite her flaws. Rima Te Wiata, playing Miriam, brings a delightful energy to her role. Her portrayal of a well-meaning but slightly eccentric mother adds a layer of warmth and humor to the film. The chemistry between O'Reilly and Te Wiata is one of the film’s highlights, creating a believable mother-daughter dynamic that is both comedic and touching.

The supporting cast also deserves mention, with Glen-Paul Waru as Amos, the security officer with a penchant for the paranormal, providing excellent comedic relief. His character adds an extra layer of fun to the proceedings. Each actor brings something unique to the table, contributing to the movie's overall charm and appeal.

Direction and Craft

Gerard Johnstone, in his directorial debut, does an impressive job of maintaining a balanced tone throughout the film. He skillfully mixes horror with comedy, using timing and atmosphere to create tension and laughter in equal measure. The script is sharp, with witty dialogue that adds depth to the characters and the storyline.

Visually, Housebound is well-crafted, with effective use of the house setting to create a claustrophobic yet familiar environment. The cinematography captures the eerie essence of the old home, while the sound design accentuates the suspenseful moments without overwhelming them. The practical effects, used sparingly but effectively, add to the film's charm and authenticity.

Collector's Verdict

As a collector, Housebound is a film that fits perfectly into a niche collection of horror comedies. The Blu-ray format is the best way to experience this movie, offering superior picture and sound quality that enhances its atmospheric elements. Although it's not the rarest find, it remains uncommon enough that adding it to your collection feels like a worthwhile pursuit. The film's unique blend of humor and horror keeps it fresh, making it a worthwhile addition to any collection.

Housebound is a must-have for fans of horror comedies. The Blu-ray format offers great picture and sound quality, enhancing the viewing experience.

Star Rating

I give Housebound a solid 4 out of 5 stars. It's a film that excels in blending genres, supported by strong performances and clever direction. Adding Housebound to your collection not only provides entertainment but also enriches your library with something that stands out for its clever approach to storytelling. Whether you're a fan of horror, comedy, or both, this film is worth your time and shelf space.