Initial release: 27 January 2020
Director: Remi Weekes
Story by: Felicity Evans; Toby Venables
Distributed by: Netflix
Music by: Roque Baños
Produced by: Aidan Elliott; Martin Gentles; Arnon Milchan; Ed King; Roy Lee
“His House” is a gripping psychological horror that delves into the lives of Bol and Rial, a refugee couple from South Sudan who arrive in England seeking asylum. After escaping the horrors of war and the loss of their daughter, they are given a dilapidated house in a rundown neighborhood as part of their integration process. However, the safety they sought quickly turns into a living nightmare as the couple realizes they are not alone in the house.
Bol, eager to assimilate and leave the past behind, tries to brush off the strange occurrences, while Rial remains deeply connected to their traumatic past, believing that the ghosts of their past have followed them. The tension between Bol and Rial intensifies as the supernatural forces within the house grow stronger, manifesting as visions of their dead daughter and other terrifying apparitions.
As the film progresses, it becomes evident that the house is a physical manifestation of their unresolved guilt and trauma. The spirits that haunt them are not just vengeful entities, but also representations of the guilt they carry for the decisions made during their escape from South Sudan, particularly the choice that led to the death of a young girl they falsely claimed as their daughter in order to escape.
The climax reveals the full extent of the couple’s haunting. Bol, in a desperate attempt to rid themselves of the spirits, destroys the walls of the house, uncovering the corpse of the girl they left behind. This discovery forces them to confront their past, leading to a cathartic moment where they acknowledge their guilt and seek forgiveness.
In the end, Bol and Rial decide to stay in the house, now aware that they must live with their past instead of running from it. The house, once a place of terror, becomes a space of acceptance and healing, symbolizing their readiness to start anew, albeit with the scars of their past still present.
Honest Review :
“His House” is a hauntingly beautiful film that intertwines horror with the emotional depth of a refugee’s experience. It doesn’t rely on cheap scares but instead uses the horror elements to explore themes of trauma, guilt, and the struggle to adapt to a new life while being haunted by the past. The performances of Wunmi Mosaku and Sope Dirisu are outstanding, bringing authenticity and raw emotion to their roles. The film’s direction by Remi Weekes is masterful, combining eerie visuals with a poignant narrative that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. While the pacing may feel slow at times, it’s intentional, allowing the story to unfold in a way that feels both deliberate and impactful.
Why to Watch :
“His House” is a must-watch for fans of horror and psychological thrillers. It’s not just a scary movie but a deeply emotional journey that explores the refugee experience in a way that few films have done before. The movie offers a unique blend of supernatural horror and real-world issues, making it a thought-provoking watch that lingers long after the credits roll. The film’s ability to weave together horror and social commentary sets it apart, making it more than just a typical haunted house story. Whether you’re drawn in by the suspense, the emotional depth, or the strong performances, “His House” delivers on all fronts, offering a cinematic experience that’s both terrifying and moving.
Hi, I’m Sirjohn, a content writer specializing in Netflix movies. I provide insightful reviews and updates on upcoming releases, helping audiences discover and explore new films and series on the platform. My work focuses on delivering fresh perspectives and detailed information to enhance your streaming experience.