Tag: psychological horror

Ghost Stories Review

by Finn the Brave, posted in Movies

Introduction

Ghost Stories (2017) is a chilling British horror anthology that blends psychological and supernatural terror into a suspenseful, twist-laden film. Directed by Jeremy Dyson and Andy Nyman, the film follows Professor Philip Goodman, a skeptical investigator of paranormal claims, as he examines three disturbing cases that challenge his beliefs. With its eerie atmosphere, unsettling storytelling, and strong performances, Ghost Stories aims to pay homage to classic horror anthologies while offering a fresh take on the genre.

Let me be upfront by saying I am a huge fan of horror movie anthologies—I seem to enjoy them even when they aren’t particularly well-made. There’s something about the structure of interconnected, bite-sized tales of terror that I find irresistible. However, that doesn’t mean I can’t recognize when an anthology falls flat or fails to deliver a satisfying experience. Some rely too heavily on jump scares, while others struggle with pacing or weak wraparound stories. So where does Ghost Stories rank among its peers? Does it deliver a hauntingly memorable experience, or is it just another forgettable entry in the genre? Let’s take a closer look.

Horror Elements

At the beginning of the movie, the true antagonist isn’t immediately clear, as the film presents itself as a straightforward supernatural investigation. Initially, the cases Professor Philip Goodman examines seem to suggest that the ghosts and demons haunting the victims are the primary sources of terror. However, as the film progresses, it becomes evident that the real antagonist is something far more psychological—Goodman himself. His deep-seated guilt and suppressed trauma manifest through the terrifying stories he encounters, leading to a shocking revelation that reframes the entire narrative. The sinister force at play isn’t just the supernatural but the haunting nature of Goodman’s own mind, making Ghost Stories as much a psychological thriller as it is a horror film.  Honestly, I went into this movie not knowing this (the trailer doesn’t give too much away), so I initially thought this was just going to be another supernatural-scares sort of film.  This made the psychological twist so much more powerful at the end.  

Professor Philip Goodman is a highly believable protagonist in Ghost Stories (2017), thanks to both strong writing and Andy Nyman’s nuanced performance. As a skeptic and debunker of the paranormal, Goodman is grounded in logic and reason, making his descent into fear and uncertainty all the more compelling. His reactions to the eerie events he investigates feel natural—initially dismissive, then subtly unnerved, and eventually completely unraveled. Unlike many horror protagonists who make irrational decisions for the sake of scares, Goodman approaches each case methodically, making his transformation into a man questioning his own reality all the more effective.  This slow suspenseful build only adds to the horror. His backstory, which is gradually revealed, adds layers to his character, making him not just a vessel for the audience but a deeply flawed and human figure whose fears are far more psychological than supernatural.

In addition to having a believable protagonist, I also felt as though the different characters’ reactions were uniquely portrayed by their character and realistic.  With the first case to be examined, that of Tony Matthews, his reaction to the supernatural events reflects what his character would actually do:  turn on a happy song up loud, call his co-worker for comfort, pick up a hammer (weapon), and call out a threat to whatever is out in the darkness tormenting him.  Simon Rifkind, the second case study, reacts in a similar fashion in that he attempts to grab a weapon (a rolled up map is better than nothing).  Instead of going into “fight mode” as Matthews did, he instead chooses to run from the car when the monster enters it.  Considering how fragile his character seems, this fits what he’d actually do quite well.  Finally, Mike Priddle, the 3rd and final character, reacts differently as well.  Being an intelligent business man, he approaches paranormal events with a logical approach.  For example, when the baby diapers fly across the floor in the nursery, he checks all the windows for a potential draft.  Again, it fits his character and I appreciate these subtle differences immensely.  

Movie Elements

While many anthologies rely on disconnected short tales with a simple wraparound narrative, Ghost Stories cleverly weaves its segments into a larger, more cohesive mystery that builds toward an unexpected and deeply unsettling conclusion.  Additionally, its willingness to subvert expectations—particularly in how it recontextualizes its supernatural elements—adds a layer of depth rarely seen in traditional anthology horror. Rather than just telling scary stories, the film ultimately explores the nature of fear, guilt, and the fragile state of the human mind, making it a refreshingly original entry in the genre.  

The pacing of Ghost Stories is deliberate, gradually building tension rather than relying on constant scares or action. The film takes its time establishing atmosphere and character, particularly through Professor Philip Goodman’s methodical investigations. Each of the three cases unfolds with a slow, creeping dread, allowing the horror to simmer rather than explode all at once. While this approach effectively heightens suspense, some viewers may find the film’s measured pace a bit too restrained, especially in the first half. However, the steady buildup pays off in the final act, where the narrative accelerates into a surreal, mind-bending climax. The film’s pacing ultimately mirrors its psychological themes—drawing the audience deeper into Goodman’s unraveling reality—making for an experience that is unsettling, if at times intentionally slow-burning.

Acting is one of the film’s strongest aspects, with each performance adding depth and authenticity to the film’s eerie atmosphere. Andy Nyman delivers a compelling lead performance as Professor Philip Goodman, perfectly capturing his character’s skepticism, growing unease, and eventual unraveling. Paul Whitehouse, Alex Lawther, and Martin Freeman each bring something unique to their respective segments.  

Whitehouse portrays a working-class man haunted by a tragic encounter with raw realism.  In fact ,as I was watching his story unfold, I couldn’t help but be reminded of someone I knew exactly like him that I worked with many years back.  Specifically, when the spooky stuff starts to happen to him during his night shift, he kind of blows it off at first, something I felt to be very much, Lawther’s performance as a deeply disturbed teenager is intensely unsettling, and Freeman adds a charismatic yet chilling presence that lingers long after his scenes. The cast’s commitment to their roles makes the supernatural elements feel all the more believable, elevating Ghost Stories beyond a typical horror anthology into something far more psychological and immersive.

Cinematography was yet another aspect of the film that was done well. The camera often lingers on empty spaces, creating a sense of unease and suggesting the presence of something unseen. The use of dim lighting and shadowy compositions heightens the feeling of claustrophobia and uncertainty, with scenes that seem to be on the edge of revealing something terrifying, but never fully expose it until the right moment. The framing is precise, often focusing on the protagonist’s reactions or the subtle movement in the background, adding to the unease. Particularly effective are the moments when the camera holds on still shots, allowing the audience to linger in the discomfort of a scene, with every shadow or flicker of light amplifying the growing sense of dread. One specific example of this is during a scene with the character Tony Matthews.  After exploring the far end of the basement level of his building and discovering nothing amiss, he tries to calm his nerves by smoking a cigarette.  In the background, the audience can see the lights in the hallway behind him turn off one by one; this was incredibly effective.  

Conclusion

Overall, Ghost Stories is a meticulously crafted horror anthology that blends supernatural chills with psychological depth, offering a uniquely unsettling experience. With strong performances, a slow-burning but effective pace, and masterful use of cinematography and sound design, the film builds an eerie, immersive atmosphere that almost requires a second viewing. While its deliberate pacing and layered storytelling may not appeal to all horror fans, those who appreciate psychological horror and well-executed suspense will find plenty to admire.  As I’ve mentioned in other articles, I have ADHD.  With this in mind, when I say that this movie captured my full interest, it means it was extremely interesting.  I like to take notes during both my viewings of the movies I review, and with this one I actually had to pause it so I could jot stuff down as I didn’t want to miss a single second.  More than just a collection of ghostly encounters, Ghost Stories is a chilling exploration of guilt, fear, and the blurred lines between reality and the mind’s darkest corners.

Final Scare Me Please Score:  Coma from hell, out of 100

Link To Official Trailer

Have you watched this movie?  What did you think of it?   Did you guess the ending? Which was the scariest story to you?  Anything we missed? Have an idea for what we should watch next? Drop a comment below to let us know!

Marrowbone

by Finn the Brave, posted in Movies

Introduction

“Marrowbone” is a 2017 horror film directed by Sergio G. Sánchez, (he also was a screenwriter for another great horror film “The Orphanage” which I fully plan on reviewing here as well).  Essentially, the movie tells the story of a family who flees to a remote house in rural America to escape a dark past. However, sinister forces begin to unravel their fragile peace as they struggle to keep their secrets buried. The film weaves a tale of psychological horror, family bonds, and supernatural elements that keep the audience on edge throughout its entirety.

Horror Elements

The antagonist in “Marrowbone” is a malevolent force that threatens the fragile stability of the family at the center of the story. This character embodies various forms throughout the film, from external threats to internal conflicts and hidden secrets. Without a clear-cut villain in the traditional sense, the antagonist in “Marrowbone” manifests as a sinister presence lurking in the shadows, manipulating events from afar.  The film crafts a narrative where the true nature of the antagonist remains shrouded in mystery, leading to a sense of unease and paranoia among the characters and the audience alike. This ambiguity allows for multiple interpretations and keeps viewers guessing until the final revelation. 

Adding to the horror, the film’s musical score plays a significant role in building suspense and accentuating key moments of horror. Composer Fernando Velázquez crafts a haunting and atmospheric soundtrack that heightens the emotional impact of the story. Swelling strings, dissonant chords, and ominous melodies underscore moments of danger and uncertainty, intensifying the overall sense of dread.  Equally as scary, was the lack of sound.  Silence is inserted at just the right moments to magnify the feel of dread within the scene.

As the plot plays out, it’s quite clear just how much thought went into developing the backstory of the characters, both the good and the bad.  This influence permeates every aspect of the film, driving the family to desperate measures to protect themselves and their secrets. Whether it’s through subtle psychological manipulation or more overt acts of violence, the antagonist’s presence and mysterious backstory looms large, casting a shadow over the family’s attempts at redemption and reconciliation.  

What makes this particularly effective is its connection to the protagonists’ past traumas and buried secrets.  As the layers of the narrative are peeled back, the true extent of the antagonist’s influence becomes increasingly apparent, leading to a chilling climax that forces the characters to confront their darkest fears on screen.  

Movie Elements

One of the strengths of “Marrowbone” lies in its atmospheric tension and mood. Sergio G. Sánchez creates a palpable sense of dread, utilizing the isolated setting of the family’s dilapidated mansion to great effect. The cinematography enhances the eerie atmosphere, with dimly lit interiors and sprawling, misty landscapes adding to the sense of foreboding.  Throughout the movie, subtle ambient sounds are employed to create a sense of unease and tension. This might include the distant howling of wind, creaking floorboards, or the faint rustling of leaves outside the mansion. These sounds serve to establish the isolated and foreboding atmosphere of the setting.

The performances in “Marrowbone” are another highlight. The young cast delivers compelling and nuanced portrayals, particularly George MacKay as the protective eldest brother Jack and Anya Taylor-Joy as the mysterious local girl who befriends the family. Their chemistry adds depth to the characters and helps to anchor the emotional core of the film.  The relationships between the characters in “Marrowbone” are central to the film’s originality. These dynamics within the family unit are intricate and multifaceted, with each member struggling with their own inner demons and conflicts. The bond between the siblings, particularly the protective nature of the eldest brother Jack, adds depth to the narrative and distinguishes it from more traditional horror fare.

Furthermore, “Marrowbone” is bolstered by its intricate narrative structure and well-paced storytelling. The film employs a non-linear narrative structure, which adds layers of complexity and intrigue to the storytelling. Rather than presenting events in a straightforward manner, the film jumps back and forth in time, gradually unveiling the family’s troubled past and the secrets they harbor. This approach keeps the audience engaged and guessing, as they piece together the puzzle of the characters’ lives.  Though it’s certainly not the only film to ever utilize this style of plot progression, it was well-done and certainly told an interesting story in a unique way.  

Conclusion

As I prefer to do with all the movies I review, I watched it three times before writing this.  Though the fears and anxiety were only present during the first watch through, the movie was still quite enjoyable during the second and third viewings. Something I feel the need to mention here, is out of all the plot twists within horror movies I’ve watch, this is one of the few that actually gave me a strong physiological response:  nausea.  It was such an upsetting shock, I actually felt sick from it which is exactly what a good twist should do.  Maybe not the sick part, but extreme shock for sure.  Overall, “Marrowbone” is a captivating and atmospheric horror film that effectively blends psychological tension with supernatural elements. While it may not offer action-packed violence and gore, its strong performances, eerie atmosphere, and compelling storytelling make it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre.  

Final Scare Me Please:  How could you ever live in that house after that trauma, out of 100

Marrowbone Official Trailer

Have you watched this movie? Did you figure out the plot before the great end-reveal?  Suggestions for what we should watch next? Drop a comment below to let us know!