Carl Roberts 
“Quirky, funny, moving, emotional and tragic, The Uninvited is a brilliant ensemble piece that genuinely impresses the audience.”
Over the years, it has become apparent to me that lower-budget, smaller films are usually more enjoyable than the big blockbusters. For every big CGI fest, a smaller, more thoughtful movie deserves its time to shine in the multiplexes. The Uninvited, written and directed by Nadia Conners in her directorial debut, is one of them. Revolving around a stranger crashing a party, which leads to a comedy of errors and a reordering of life, is one of them. Thoughtfully written and boasting an outstanding ensemble cast that includes Pedro Pascal, Lois Smith, Elizabeth Reaser, Walton Goggins, Eva De Dominici, and Rufus Sewell, the film is a gem that sparkles throughout.
PREMISE
Actress-turned-reluctant homemaker Rose (Elizabeth Reaser) and her agent husband Sammy (Walton Goggins) host a small party to impress a star client (Rufus Sewell), but tensions simmer beneath the glamorous façade when an elderly woman (Lois Smith) unexpectedly arrives, claiming the house was once hers.
THOUGHTS
The film showcases the unadulterated joy of independent cinema. There are no explosions, CGI effects, action scenes, or the like here. Instead, we have a film set exclusively in one location throughout. There is more charm, mystery, emotion, and laughter here than expected. It also features a cast that gives an acting masterclass. The plot threads are interwoven and slowly untangle themselves as the film progresses, making it a real eye-opener. The characters’ egos are allowed to run rampant from start to finish, to often hilarious effect. However, the film also features enough emotional drama, tragedy, and heartfelt emotion to keep the audience invested.
THE CAST
The ensemble cast all have their parts to play in the events depicted in the film. Not all of them are nice people. In fact, many come across as shallow. The film is a sharp character study and exploration of ageing, gender roles, and Hollywood’s superficiality. The main protagonists are the married couple of Sammy and Rose. With Walton Goggins and Elizabeth Reaser in these roles, the film shines from the first frame to the last. The emotional heft that the pair give the audience a unique insight into what goes on behind closed doors in Hollywood.
As the emotionally conflicted and stressed Sammy, Goggins gives one of his finest performances to date. This is echoed in the performance of Elizabeth Reaser as the former actress turned homemaker who resents being considered too old to play the parts she’s used to portraying. Their dynamic gives the film an emotional heft we don’t expect.
Pedro Pascal as Lucian, a Hollywood star and Eva De Dominici as Delia appeal in their roles. Both have their own secrets, which are revealed as the film nears its climax. Both are supporting characters here, becoming vital cogs in the film’s machine. But it is Lois Smith as Helen, the confused elderly woman claiming to live in the couple’s home, who impresses the most. Of all the characters, hers is the most innocent. Exactly why is revealed during the film, allowing the audience to resonate with her. It is her role that brings the real emotion to the movie, giving the actress a terrific medium in which to show her acting prowess. It is a wonderful performance.
VERDICT
Quirky, funny, moving, emotional and tragic, The Uninvited is a brilliant ensemble piece that genuinely impresses the audience. It is an almost perfect blend of plot strands that slowly reveal themselves along the way. It easily shows the superficiality behind Hollywood, the smile to the face while delivering your true feelings behind the back. Throw in the desperation that Hollywood agents feel as they try to impress an important client in all its glory, and you have a wonderfully crafted tale that delivers.
The Uninvited is a tale that slowly delivers a payload that leads to a sad, tragic payoff. Although we see it coming, it does give the film a downbeat climax. That is another reason why I like the film. It doesn’t shy away from the emotional heft that it builds during proceedings. It is real, believable and delivers great entertainment thanks to Nadia Conners’ writing and directing and the belief and passion the cast put into the material. Do yourself a favour. Accept the invite to see The Uninvited. Trust me, you’ll miss a real treat if you refuse.
The Uninvited will be in UK cinemas on May 9th.
Introducing Carl! As the News Editor at Future of the Force, Carl has been an invaluable member of our team since early 2016. His expertise and dedication have made him an integral part of our editorial staff. Beyond his professional role, Carl is a fervent supporter of Liverpool F.C. and an avid follower of pop culture. He has a deep passion for Halloween, Friday the 13th, and the iconic movie franchises Star Wars and Star Trek.
He can be found either at his neighborhood cinema, enjoying the latest releases on the big screen, or at home streaming the newest blockbuster movies.
