The Witch in the Window

The Witch in the Window is a terrifying venture into the horror genre from 2018, written and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Andy Mitton. The film stars the talented Arija Bareikis, the versatile Alex Draper, and the promising young actor Charlie Tacker. It gained significant attention and positive reviews from critics and viewers alike, thanks in part to its unique blend of straightforward horror and psychological mystery, all nicely wrapped up in an honest-to- goodness drama about family and relationships.

The main storyline revolves around the life of Simon and his twelve-year-old son, Finn, portrayed by Alex Draper and Charlie Tacker respectively. Faced with personal issues and marital troubles, Simon moves with Finn to rural Vermont from the hustle and bustle of New York City, in a bid to fix up a dilapidated farmhouse and rekindle their father-son bond. Arija Bareikis plays Beverly, Simon’s estranged wife, who plays an instrumental role in establishing the emotional backdrop of the story.

Simon and Finn’s attempts at repairing their lives and the old house are thwarted when they chance upon Lydia, an unsettling and mysterious presence that the local folklore has coined as the 'witch in the window'. Lydia, they discover, is not just a mere specter; her spirits have grown and become a part of the house. Dramatically, as they mend the old house, Lydia's spirit seems to gain strength, and soon, their renovated farmhouse becomes a battleground for the duo's survival against the vengeful witch.

Despite its premise, The Witch in the Window stands out from typical horror flicks. Along with its supernaturally scary elements, it delves deep into the subtle horrors of day-to-day life, such as dealing with martial problems and parenting struggles. The complexity of Simon and Finn's relationship and their shared fears create an intense, gripping backdrop for Lydia's looming presence. The narrative weaves together fear, anticipation, and moments of heart-wrenching vulnerability seamlessly to give the audience a full-bodied, emotional experience.

Mitton’s spirited storytelling, combined with sterling performances from the cast, enriches the film’s atmosphere. Draper, as Simon, delivers an empathetic character trying to overcome his personal fears and failures to shield his son from life’s harsh realities. Bareikis, in her limited screen-time, makes her presence felt, perfectly encapsulating the struggles and dilemmas of a mother and a wife. But it's Tacker who truly makes an impression. His portrayal of the curious and brave Finn builds the movie’s emotional pillar. Despite his young age, he incredibly manages to channel fear, innocence, courage, and vulnerability, all within a single role.

Cinematographer Justin Kane's visually arresting scenes add another dimension to the film. The gloomy, spectral Vermont countryside serves as the perfect setting for this horror-filled saga. The intricate design of the haunted house, casts a shadowy presence that lingers throughout the film, as if it were an ominous character in itself. Kane’s craft effortlessly bridges the shift from plain daylight to unnerving darkness, perfectly mirroring the storyline's progression from a simple father-son bonding tale into an intense bone-chilling experience.

What's interesting about The Witch in the Window is that it is as much a character drama as it is a horror film. Its distinct blend of penetrating horror with relational drama, deep emotional undercurrents, and intriguing characters are its strongest points. It has moments filled with authentic fright that will satisfy horror enthusiasts but remains approachable for anyone not typically attracted to the genre due to its heartfelt subplot.

In conclusion, The Witch in the Window is not just another horror movie. It is a skilfully directed, beautifully acted, and well-written film that pushes the boundaries of horror cinema. By combining heart and horror, it manages to build relatable characters and a compelling narrative. The Witch in the Window seems to suggest that perhaps; it's not the monsters under our bed that are the most frightening but the ones hiding within our lives. Whether you are a horror enthusiast or not, this movie is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.