Don't Let Her In

Don't Let Her In, an enticing horror film from 2021, has captivated audiences with its engaging narrative, skilled performances, and eerie atmospherics. Directed by Ted Nicolaou, the movie bristles with suspense and horror, delivering a roller-coaster ride of a viewing experience. The haunting energy of the film is beautifully complemented by the performances of its talented cast including Kelly Curran, Cole Pendery, and Lorin Doctor.

As the film begins, we are introduced to the protagonists, a young couple, played by Curran and Pendery, who are gradually settling into their new life in a Los Angeles loft apartment. Their lives undergo an unsettling shift as they make the decision to take in a tenant to assist with expenses. Amplifying the typical concerns and conflicts related to sharing space with a stranger, Don't Let Her In takes a terrifying turn as our protagonists unwittingly invite an unknown evil into their home.

Having been a familiar face in theatre and television, Kelly Curran excels in the role of Serena, lending the role a profound sense of believability that’s essential for the audience to connect with her anxieties and fears. Cole Pendery, as Ben, provides a commendable portrayal of a loving boyfriend who’s tangled up in the complexities of this horrifying situation. The chemistry between Curran and Pendery brings the relationship to life, helping the viewer to invest in their predicament.

Lorin Doctor commands attention with her eerie portrayal of their tenant, Amber. As the primary source of the ominous energy that sweeps through the movie, Doctor’s performance is imbued with a palpable menace that leaves a lasting impression, contributing significantly to the movie’s atmospheric tension.

This film is more than a typical haunted house or demonic possession trope; it provides a fresh perspective on the horror genre by utilizing the mundane setting of a shared apartment as the backdrop for its gruesome narrative. Instead of the archetypical old, broken down house set in a remote location, the daily life setting of Don't Let Her In allows the narrative to establish its terror in the most ordinary and familiar of spaces. This unique approach amplifies the unsettling atmosphere of the film, instilling a sense of insecurity and suspense that something terrible can happen anytime, anywhere.

Director Ted Nicolaou, renowned for his work within the horror genre, once again showcases his exceptional ability to create tension and terror with unique settings and intriguing character dynamics. Nicolaou sensitively handles the suspenseful aspects of the film, gradually building up a sense of fear instead of relying solely on jump scares.

Admittedly, the film’s premise offers ample opportunities for Nicolaou to play with audience expectations, and he does so brilliantly. Throughout the movie, he expertly directs our attention towards the mundane, only to shock us with abrupt disturbances in the calm.

With regard to the film's visual aspects, its cinematography is masterfully executed. The beautifully shot scenes, combined with the strategic use of light and shadow, help to maintain an overwhelming sense of tension and dread throughout the film. Despite the contemporary setting, there's a classic horror feel to the aesthetics, complementing the narrative perfectly.

Don't Let Her In from 2021 is truly a remarkable piece of work, impressively demonstrating the genre's potential when filmmakers are willing to go beyond the commonplace and explore new realms of terror. Its ability to transform everyday settings and situations into the extraordinary offers not only an entertaining viewing experience, but also ignites an unsettling sense of tension and disquiet that lingers long after the movie has ended.

In essence, Don't Let Her In offers a chilling exploration of terror that seeps into an ordinary domestic setting. This stylish, suspenseful film, bolstered by impressive performances and a distinctive atmosphere, is a soft yet chilling reminder that the greatest dread can come from the most unsuspecting places, making it a must-watch for anyone intrigued by horror that breaches the boundaries of the ordinary.