Movie Reviews

‘Summoning Sylvia’ review: LGBTQ comedy-horror is the type of film we need more of

Never takes itself too seriously.

April 8, 2023

Summoning Sylvia is a horror-comedy about a group of friends who choose the worst place for a bachelor party. As the group explores the haunted house they have decided on, they recount its bloody history. When hetero Harrison (Nicholas Logan, I Care a Lot) joins the gaycation it is by invitation, but soon the friends have to deal with uninvited guests.

Though it follows a familiar horror formula, the film is more about having fun than scaring people. Summoning Sylvia is loud and fun while also telling a fish out of water story. There are some scares to be found – this is a haunted house story, after all – but audiences will find themselves laughing more than screaming.

At times, it is surprising just how silly Summoning Sylvia is. Harrison is obviously uncomfortable being the only heterosexual man in the group, but it is never fully addressed. That being said, it never feels like a missed opportunity since this is not the type of movie to tackle serious themes head on. It intentionally deals in over the top stereotypes that pokes fun at portrayals, but never actual people.

The story is a lighthearted one filled with musical numbers and ridiculous moments. Still, the movie’s big twist is a noticeable weak point. It is a little too predictable. This is not a huge problem, but it does stand out since it plays into a trope without the charm of the rest of the film.

This does not take away from the overall enjoy of Summoning Sylvia, however. The plot moves at a rapid pace and constantly delivers jokes. It is completely ridiculous and never takes itself too seriously. It is the type of comedic fluff that today’s world needs more of.