His House is a horror movie that seems content to reside in the mundane. Bol and Rial are a couple that has left South Sudan for Britain. During the trek, their daughter dies. They are forced to live in dilapidated housing until the government decides if they can even stay in the country. The characters may be different, but it is a story told before.
All the elements are there for a horror movie about the evils of a so called “civilized” country. His House is more than just a scary movie with something to say, however. The story does tackle themes of racism and immigration, but it also deals in grief and loss. His House is a frightening movie. What makes the scares different here are how they are awash in sadness. Understandably, the loss of their daughter stays with Bol and Rial. Every strange occurrence is tied to her death.
This is where the film’s true brilliance stands out. His House uses horror tropes to capture the essence of the refugee experience. The feelings of not being welcome and fighting to convince others (and yourself) that you belong are given powerful voice. This adds another dimension to the movie. These are real fears being brought to the front through the language of horror.
His House may be at its most scary when it steps away from using analogies. The distrust and thinly veiled racism brings an air of tension even before things begin to go bump in the night. The government’s lack of concern is even more terrifying. The film may use horror to convey its message, but that does not mean it is not genuinely scary. His House has some effective jump scares. There are also some great shots that blur the line between past fears and present danger. Director Remi Weekes makes sure to get the message and scares across.
His House is an impactful horror movie. Its story about two refugees seeking asylum is given a unique twist. The theme of the film is never heavy handed and the terror always seems grounded in reality. Things move at a brisk pace at times, but nothing in the movie ever goes unexplained. This is the rare thoughtful horror movie that is both scary and moving.
His House premieres on October 30 on Netflix.
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