Strange events plague a couple and their young
daughter when they rent a secluded countryside house that has a dark past.
Director: David Koepp
Cast: Kevin Bacon, Amanda Seyfried, Avery Essex, Geoff Bell, Lowri-Ann Richards
Release Date: June 18, 2020
Genres: Horror, Mystery
Rated R for some violence, disturbing images, sexual content and
language
Runtime: 1h 33min
Review:
You Should Have Left is the definition of a forgettable horror
thriller. David Koepp’s film is interesting
enough but it always hints at bigger idea and themes but it never follows
through on its promise. Koepp’s visual
style is striking enough to keep things engaging especially once the house
starts opening up. Kevin Bacon is more
than capable in the lead but there are weird tonal shifts that pop up
throughout the film which makes maintaining any sort of tension a Herculean
task. Amanda Seyfried does what she can
but it’s a thinly written role that leaves her feeling more like a plot tool
than a fully realized character. Avery
Essex is a surprisingly effective child actress which is to the film’s
benefit. Sadly, the film itself is a
mixed bag of clichés and unrealized ideas which leave you with the impression
that there is a better film in there somewhere.
C
