Director: Jessica M. Thompson
Genre: Mystery, Horror
Cast: Nathalie Emmanuel, Thomas Doherty, Hugh Skinner, Stephanie Corneliussen, Alana Boden, Sean Pertwee
Duration: 104 minutes
Now streaming on Netflix
Given the havoc DNA tests have caused recently, it is only fitting to suggest a movie where this test features. The Invitation is not really about a DNA test but the test does lead to the titular invitation. Evie (Emmanuel) discovers through a DNA test that she has relatives in England. She finds one relative in particular, Olivier (Skinner), who invites her for a wedding in England so she can meet some more relatives. Evie arrives in England to a manor. The lord of the manner is Willian De Ville (Doherty) who quickly charms Evie. William’s last name should be a dead giveaway that there is something bloody coming up for Evie.
The Invitation is based on Bram Stoker’s Dracula so if you have read the book, you know what is in stock for Evie. If you have not read the book, you are still in for a treat, especially if you enjoy being spooked. The storyline is straight to the point. We find out why and how Evie got the invitation, watch her navigate being in the manor, and end on a mysterious note. Emmanuel is the shining star of the movie. She really is one of those actresses who shines no matter what she does, and she leaves you wondering why someone has not cast her as the lead in a big-budget movie. But seeing as there is a strike going on in Hollywood, ;we will see and wait. Doherty has that charm with a hint of mystery going for him but he does not hit the mark quite as perfectly. I blame The Vampire Diaries and Originals for raising our expectations of English, undead peeps.
I was surprised that The Invitation came out in 2022 since I did not hear any buzz around it. It is a decent horror movie despite the ish-ish production. Hardcore horror movie fans will find it weak. Those who like a little bit of horror without being terrified will enjoy it.
–Grace Kenganzi
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