Let Us In

Let Us In, a 2021 science fiction thriller, tells a riveting tale of otherworldly encounters, enduring friendships, and unwavering bravery. Directed by Craig Moss, the film stars Makenzie Moss, O'Neill Monahan, and Eric Callero, passionately breathing life into the layered characters.

The film centers around Emily (Makenzie Moss), a sensitive and intelligent 12-year-old who often finds herself ostracized by her peers due to her love for astronomy and her quirks. Despite being outcast, Emily is brave, resilient, and possesses a spirited energy that draws us into her world. Operating a YouTube channel with her best friend Christopher (O'Neill Monahan), she shares her obsession with outer space, theorizing about possibly existing extraterrestrial life forms and contemplates the mysteries of the cosmos. It is this duo's journey through skepticism, discovery, and ultimate acceptance that forms the backbone of the movie.

The plot unfolds when numerous instances of teenagers mysteriously disappearing befall their small town. Simultaneously, Emily and Christopher begin to have eerie and inexplicable experiences, primarily involving a group of strange, hoodie-wearing, and seemingly faceless individuals. The duo encounter them more than once, always hearing the same cryptic question from the hooded figures – "Can You Let Us In?"

While looking for answers to these unsettling and supernatural occurrences, the children stumble upon an old urban legend about alien-like creatures who request entry, somewhat reminiscent of folklore around ancient entities that trick humans into welcoming them into their homes. Despite their fear, Emily and Christopher decide to delve deeper into the mystery of the disappearing kids and these daunting apparitions.

While Emily and Christopher's investigation is met with ridicule from the authorities and other adults, the sheer persistence and their commitment to seek the truth lends a compelling tenacity to the film. Their quest is not just about unwinding a spooky alien invasion tale; it becomes something more, an urgant attempt to save their town, their friends, and most importantly, themselves.

Parallel to this storyline is Emily's struggle to deal with the premature death of her father, a subplot that adds extra depth and sensitivity to her character and a clear driving force behind her obsession with extraterrestrial life. It is manifested in her resolute bravery and her determination to understand what's beyond the world she knows—an attempt to connect with a father she believes is somewhere out in the cosmos.

O'Neill Monahan, playing the role of Christopher, shows a remarkable range of emotions. He portrays a intelligent, loyal, and steadfast friend with a fraternal protectiveness of Emily. His character develops throughout the story as he sheds his fear and skepticism about the extraordinary happenings around them, further enriching the narrative.

Performances of Makenzie Moss and O'Neill Monahan are coupled with a supporting cast that brings out the richness of the story. Eric Callero, featuring as a local Police Officer, is a standout with his character's often dismissive attitude towards the children's fears, depicting the common adult disbelief in the unexplained or supernatural.

The visual experience, sound design, and special effects of Let Us In build an eerie suspense-filled atmosphere, amplifying the narrative's chilling theme. The cinematography strikes an effective balance between the mundane life of a small town and the ominous, otherworldly sequences.

Craig Moss, also the director of the film, brings his distinctive storytelling practices into this thriller. Instead of relying on easy jump scares and shrill sound effects, he gracefully builds a brooding tension and uses the narrative's chilling theme itself to frighten and awe the viewer.

In essence, Let Us In turns into a wild ride where characters remain the focal point in a narrative spun with mystery and suspense. The emphasis on the strength of friendship, determination, and bravery puts the heart into the tale that's essentially about battling the unknown. At some point in the viewing experience, "Let Us In" becomes more than an eerie plea from an unknown entity; it transforms into the viewer's TV set asking them to let in a thrilling, enigmatic tale of friendship and fearlessness.