Invitation to Hell

Invitation to Hell is a captivating Science Fiction horror film launched in 1984, directed by the legendary Wes Craven and scripted by Richard Rothstein. The film stars talented actors such as Robert Urich, Joanna Cassidy, Peggy McCay, Joe Regalbuto and the iconic Susan Lucci of All My Children fame, whose portrayal of Jessica Jones is considered one of the film's highlights.

As the movie kicks off, we acquaint ourselves with the film's protagonist, Matt Winslow (played by Robert Urich), a brilliant space suit engineer who moves to a plush, new corporate town with his family, after landing a job in an aerospace corporation. Winslow's character brings in a daily-dose of enthusiasm you often expect from someone who has just been relocated for a high-profile job.

As the storyline progresses into something deeper, the Winslow family attends an invitation from a sophisticated health spa named 'Steaming Springs'. Winslow's new boss and colleagues are part of this exclusive club and are anxiously encouraging him to join the club. However, Winslow senses something suspicious about the club right from the beginning.

The central plot revolves around the contention that this social club is not just a place for recreational activities. As it turns out, the club seems to have a coercive side that ensnared its new members into a more sinister, darker agenda. Eerie circumstances and odd behavior of the club's members raise the cloud of suspicion over the club's real motive. The club's director, Jessica Jones (played by Susan Lucci), has a strangely charismatic yet disconcerting demeanor, which adds to the mystery.

Joanna Cassidy plays Patricia 'Pat' Winslow, Matt's wife, who urges him to join the club to maintain their social standing in their new corporate town. She effectively delivers the role of a career-oriented woman who is independent yet engaged with family. Through her and their two children, we get to witness the not-so-subtle influence of the club as they interact with other members.

The narrative is paced out very well, managing suspense, fear, and intrigue through seamless scenes. Director Wes Craven's proven chops in the horror genre is evident throughout the movie and Invitation to Hell is no exception. Craven consistently blurs the line between ordinary and alarming, which intensify tension and pique curiosity among the viewers. The film prompts viewers to second guess their notions about good and evil, while it revolves around corporate greed and blind ambition.

Invitation to Hell sparkles with sophisticated-yet-menacing characters, a spellbinding storyline, and an underlying thread of sci-fi horror that holds the viewers till the end. The movie subtly sends out a message on the downside of excessive pursuit of success and blindly falling for materialistic charms.

Critics praised the nuanced performances and solid storytelling of Invitation to Hell. Robert Urich delivers a compelling performance as Matt Winslow, striking the right chord with his skeptical attitude and his relentless struggle for truth. Joanna Cassidy convincingly plays the part of a loving wife and mother trying to ensure her family's security and well-being, even as she gets dragged into the vast ominous web spun at the 'Steaming Springs'. Susan Lucci's icy demeanor and mysterious mien, suit well to her character and form the perfect foil for the Winslows.

The special effects, which were state-of-the-art during the movie's release in mid-80s, featured a set of visually fascinating elements that added to the suspense and thrill throughout the movie.

In summary, Invitation to Hell is a riveting tale of the Winslow family's encounter with a façade of luxurious living in a new, corporate town that hides an evil truth. Backed by strong performances, intriguing characters, and the intense atmospheric horror only Wes Craven can create, the movie is a must-watch for fans of the horror-Sci-Fi genre. It's a thrilling journey that prompts audiences to question the price they would pay for success. Be prepared, for this is one invitation you don't want to miss.