“The Invitation” is a 2022 supernatural horror film directed by Jessica M. Thompson (“Back on Board”). The film was written by Blair Butler (“Fresh Ink”), and produced by Emilie Gladstone (“The Curse Of La Llorona”) and has a PG-13 rating. 

The movie revolves around Evie Jackson (Nathalie Emmanuel, “Game of Thrones,”) who receives an invitation to a large, bright, beautiful home. She meets her long lost cousin, who convinces her to come to England and meet the rest of the family.  Evie learns what lurks in the corners within this mansion, and her family secrets unfold into her reality. What Evie knows and what is actually going on with her family, are far from each other. Evie gets pampered and meets her new family, and staff. But what she does not know is why there are always five maids who do not speak. The owner of the mansion, the classic vampire hunk, Walter De Ville (Thomas Doherty, “Descendants 3”) throws money like candy. Walter is wealthy and is only after one thing, something only Evie carries in herself. Between expensive gifts, parties and extravagant dinners, Walter does his best to create a safe atmosphere for his guest to feel welcomed. 

There are many twists and turns from the shadows in the background, to not being able to sleep in one’s own bed. This is a thriller mystery that viewers solve alongside the main character.

This movie is intended to be a remake of  “Dracula,” giving off the same mysterious vibe with a lighter tone and dialogue. Lighting has a huge part to play in this movie, watching this movie on the big screen really enhances the silence before the jump scare. The lights get dimmer than usual in the cellar whenever something suspicious happens. Overall, the lighting adds to the eerie tone of the movie.

The set of the movie brings out the relationship between the characters and the storyline. The mansion looks classic to the point where it appears to be authentic. The costumes and accents also capture the essence of classic vampires. The masks and wardrobe are very beautiful and seem to take the watcher back in time.

The details in context are intact with classic vampire movies, like the use of super strength, super speed and thirst for blood. The actors perform well together, and the story is kind of a Wattpad of forbidden love with an expected ending, or so one should think. 

The storyline is well thought out and has all of the necessary details and context. Such is the case for arch-nemesis,  Victoria played by Stephanie Corneliussen (“Mr.Robot”), who likes to stir up trouble for Evie out of jealousy for her beauty and grace.

The buildup to the climax and the actual climax do not flow well at the end. The plot feels rushed, and once the resolution occurs, the movie just ends. We see a slight resolution but this leaves the audience wondering: Is there a second movie coming? Will the second movie surpass the first? 

This movie was a great stepping stone to start a series, but it mainly exists to provide context and background with some classic jumpscares. There are definitely eye rolling cliches, but also funny moments with the actors that seem genuine. It is an enjoyable movie and it should be reccommended to anyone who likes a good scary movie.

Image from Sony Pictures Entertainment via YouTube