Crimson Peak (2/9/2016)

Rated R for bloody violence, some sexual content and brief strong language.

Starring Charlie Hunnam, Jessica Chastain, Tom Hiddleston, Mia Wasikowska, Doug Jones and Jim Beaver

Directed by Guillermo del Toro (Hellboy, Pan’s Labyrinth)

Not your typical “ghost story.”

In the aftermath of a family tragedy, an aspiring author is torn between love for her childhood friend and the temptation of a mysterious outsider. Trying to escape the ghosts of her past, she is swept away to a house that breathes, bleeds…and remembers.

So many ghost stories/films use all the same tricks…everything happens at night, make the audience jump as much as possible, lots and lots of blood, sex and/or nudity, and have some of the creepiest music ever.

Then there are Guillermo del Toro horror films…visually stunning, well-acted and extremely well written. Crimson Peak is an old-fashioned and beautiful horror movie that is carefully crafted with vivid color schemes and deeply developed characters.

Del Toro built a complete mansion on a soundstage in Toronto, and it’s one of the most impressive sets you’ll ever see. Every painting, every disturbing piece of decaying furniture tucked in a corner, every butterfly — it’s enough to make the house a character unto itself. Del Toro’s attention to detail is unrivaled.

The same goes for the detailed costumes, especially those worn by the women.

The cast delivered both powerful and elegant performances. Mia Wasikowska plays Edith, the hopelessly romantic who is naïve and (at times) a little annoying. Charlie Hunnam and Tom Hiddleston are polar opposites and both played perfectly by these veteran actors.

But it’s the story that is this film’s biggest strength. From every trailer I watched, I thought this film was a typical horror film, but I was so wrong…so very wrong. There are some horror elements, but it’s the fear of people and not ghosts that give the audience the most chills.

Crimson Peak may not have mass appeal, but I thought it is “Theater Worthy.”

SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
There is only one F-word in the film, but several other things that would make me say no. There are a lot of disturbing images throughout the film. And although there is no nudity, there are two sex scenes.

CONVERSATION STARTER:

1. How would you describe Thomas?


2. How would you describe Alan?


3. Why does Alan track down Edith?


4. What are some other crazy ideas have been motivated by love?

Read 1 Corinthians 16:14

Do everything in love.


5. What are some big things that you can do for your family and friends because you love them?