Netflix might struggle sometimes when it comes to its original horror content, but every so often, it delivers a gem that reminds us why we keep hitting 'play.' One such hidden gem is His House, a chilling and thought-provoking psychological horror film that flew under the radar for many back when it was released in 2020.
But I'm here to tell you that it’s not too late to experience this horror masterpiece. Forget about whatever else you planned on watching. This critically acclaimed movie deserves a spot at the top of your watchlist. You might not know it now, but once you hit play, you'll quickly realize it’s one of the most unique and powerful horror films in recent years. One that you'd wish you had discovered sooner.
The film centers on Bol and Rial, a young refugee couple who flee the war-torn country of South Sudan and find asylum in England. But their journey there is anything but easy. After surviving harrowing circumstances, including the tragic loss of their daughter during the escape, they’re settled into a dilapidated house, only to soon realize that it’s haunted. As they encounter unsettling supernatural occurrences, they also grapple with the trauma and guilt of their past.
You might think from the plot alone that this is just your typical haunted house story, but His House is far more than that. It offers something more meaningful and unique. The film skillfully weaves together elements of horror with a deep emotional narrative, exploring the psychological impact of war, displacement, and the struggle to adapt to a new life. It goes beyond traditional horror, offering a powerful commentary on the refugee experience and the haunting consequences of trauma that follow, no matter where you go.
Despite Bol and Rial's efforts to start fresh in a new home, the emotional wounds from their past continue to haunt them, constantly reminding them that trauma isn't something that can be left behind. His House powerfully demonstrates that trauma tends to follow you, no matter how far you try to escape, and the real challenge is facing it head-on before it overwhelms you.
This is something Bol and Rial don't fully understand until the supernatural events in their new home force them to confront their buried guilt and grief. It's once they finally acknowledge the weight of their past and allow themselves to face the ghosts of their trauma that they begin to find the path toward healing.
I've got to give it up to Wunmi Mosaku and Sope Dirisu, who deliver incredibly grounded and emotional performances as Rial and Bol. Through their performances, we feel the horror of not just the supernatural, but the deeply human experience of trying to escape a past that won't let you go. They expertly convey the emotional weight of their characters, showing the internal battle between their desire to move forward and the overwhelming pull of their unresolved trauma. Truthfully, I'm not sure if any other actors could have brought such depth to these roles with their strong chemistry making every moment between them feel raw and authentic.
I also have to give credit where it is due to Remi Weekes, who not only directed the film but also wrote the screenplay. His vision truly brings the story to life, blending horror with an exploration of grief and survival in a way that feels both heartbreaking and terrifying. The fact that His House is his first feature makes it all the more impressive. Weekes has certainly set a high bar for himself, and it's clear he's a director to keep an eye on in the future.
Overall, this is the perfect movie for horror fanatics who want more than just jump scares. Don’t get me wrong. There are definitely chilling moments and disturbing visuals, and you’ll even find yourself on edge at times because of the unsettling atmosphere. However, the real horror comes from the psychological unraveling of the characters as they struggle with their past traumas, their guilt, and the realization that the true horror may not be the supernatural forces around them, but the darkness they carry within.
Now, head on over to Netflix and check His House out. I promise, it’s worth your time. Then, I recommend checking out Mosaku and Weekes' latest horror projects after you're done. Currently, you can catch Mosaku in the new vampire horror flick Sinners, which is playing in theaters. On the other hand, you can catch Weekes in the Apple TV+ horror film The Gorge. Both are must-sees for fans of their work.