House Of Afflictions

House of Afflictions from 2017 is a chilling and captivating British horror film starring Michelle Darkin Price, Stefan Boehm, and Penelope Butler. Breaking their traditional molds, the phenomenal acting prowess of these performers help to breathe life and substance into a story that comes from a genre often dismissed for lacking depth and intrigue.

The subtext of the plot is a story not far from those we encounter in our day-to-day lives, revolving around perceptions, the human psyche, and the power of unseen forces - both mental and spiritual. The protagonist, crime author Kate Beckley, played by Michelle Darkin Price, struggles with the disconcerting echoes of her past that haunt her present. Price’s exceptional portrayal of Beckley proves she is a truly remarkable actress capable of carrying a complex role, artfully balancing between fragmented reality and bone-chilling terror.

Stefan Boehm is also a remarkable contributor to the atmosphere of intrigue and suspense in House of Afflictions. As Detective Nick Shaw, he projects an imposing figure representing the practical side of law and order, embodying skepticism about the supernatural explanations for Beckley's troubles. Yet, his character's transformation revealing a more tender and considerate side, adds depth and warmth to the movie.

Penelope Butler graces the audience with an amazing performance, skilfully materializing the delicate balance between empathy and fear as she is drawn into the horrifying drama revolving around Beckley.

Located in the remote countryside, the setting of Beckley's residence, an old manor house, is a character in its own right. This looming, unspeaking actor within the narrative holds its own secrets, its own eerie whispers, and its own afflictions mirroring those of Beckley herself. The director, Anthony M. Winson, has managed to vividly portray the haunting melancholy and chilling essence of this magnificent building, interspersing scenes with moments of tranquillity amongst terrifying suspense.

Winson is no amateur to horror film productions, his discerning eye capturing the essence of unspoken dread and paranoia that lurks in every shadow, every flit of curtain, every unusual sound. The expertly crafted ambience of 'House of Afflictions' is almost tangible, which is a testament to the director’s excellent skills in moulding the atmosphere to suit his narrative perfectly.

The narrative itself crosses over from the psychological to paranormal, flawlessly blending two horror sub-genres together, presenting an intricate mosaic of terror and intrigue. Each plot device that unfolds is designed to keep the viewer guessing, on edge, never quite sure where they’ve reached in this maze of uncertainties against a backdrop of past and present mysteries interplay.

Alongside its main performers and the director’s prowess, another shining factor in 'House of Afflictions' is the way a variety of narrative elements are woven together. The story’s originality and authenticity is suggested in the mix of crime, supernatural elements, past-life unraveling coupled with Beckley’s complex characterization and psychological plight.

Throughout the movie, viewers will find symbolism, clever foreshadowing, and the extensive use of visual and auditory cues that serve to heighten the tension, mystery, and eeriness integral to the storyline.

The creators employ an impressive use of sound design, harnessing it as an effective tool in contributing towards the overall horror atmosphere of the movie. The carefully selected score serves as an auditory labyrinth that oscillates from soft, lulling melodies to spine-chilling tonalities that matched or contrasted with the scenes accordingly.

The storytelling and direction of 'House of Afflictions' make it a remarkably well-made film that doesn’t rely on jump scares or gore to deliver its punches. It is a drama that evolves to a psychological thriller and morphs into a haunting horror, sending a chill down the spine of the viewer, engaging and terrifying in equal measures.

In conclusion, 'House of Afflictions' is a gripping look at the human psyche under duress, and an exploration into the boundaries between reality and the unseen. This is recommended for any horror or psychological thriller enthusiasts looking for a well-crafted, engrossing movie experience, rich in authentic performances, atmospheric tension and intriguing narrative twists and turns.