Séance (2024) Review: A Chilling Gothic Drama!

Set against the stormy backdrop of 1892 California, Séance delves into the dark complexities of human emotion, blending psychological horror with haunting Victorian drama. The story follows Emma Strand (Scottie Thompson), a novelist on holiday with her second husband, Albert, as they unexpectedly seek shelter at the mansion of Emma’s first husband, George, and his unstable wife, Lillian (Vivian Kerr). As the night unfolds, the group is forced to confront grief, temptation, and the eerie possibility of a ghostly presence tied to the tragic death of George and Lillian’s young daughter, Hazel.

Related: “Step Back, Doors Closing” Review – A Heartfelt Gem!

Beginning with the positives, Séance masterfully blends gothic horror with psychological tension, delving into themes of grief, temptation, and moral ambiguity. Set against the restrained backdrop of Victorian propriety, the film’s richly drawn characters are especially captivating. Emma’s internal struggle with temptation and infidelity contrasts sharply with Lillian’s consuming guilt and grief over her daughter’s tragic death. These layered conflicts are further amplified by supernatural undertones, seamlessly intertwining unresolved emotions with an eerie sense of mystery. Themes of love, betrayal, and the haunting weight of loss unravel throughout the narrative, crafting a story that is both chilling and deeply human.

Furthermore, I initially expected Séance to be a straightforward horror film, and it certainly begins that way. However, the film surprised me with its deep emotional core and dramatic themes. At its heart, it’s a poignant exploration of grief and guilt, with Lillian’s offering a raw portrayal of how these emotions can spiral into instability and mental disorder. The story also examines society’s discomfort with grief, cleverly using this unease to unsettle viewers. Central to the narrative is the theme of self-forgiveness, which profoundly shapes the arcs of both primary characters and ultimately drives the resolution of the haunting.

The production values of Séance are outstanding for an indie film, fully immersing me in its Victorian-era world. The costumes, set design, and haunting mansion, combined with stormy weather, create an atmosphere steeped in unease. Vivian Kerr’s direction strikes a delicate balance between psychological depth and supernatural tension, making every scene feel intentional and layered. Additionally, Johanna Coelho’s cinematography amplifies the mood with elegant shadows and candlelit visuals, evoking fear through subtle suggestion rather than relying on overt scares. The film’s meticulous attention to detail elevates its storytelling, making it both visually and emotionally captivating.

The performances really stood out to me, especially from Scottie Thompson and Vivian Kerr. They each bring something unique to their roles. Kerr, as the grief-stricken Lillian, nails the delicate balance between vulnerability and instability. Thompson, on the other hand, portrays Emma with such depth, showing her inner conflict between loyalty and longing. The dynamics between all the characters—Emma, Albert, George, and Lillian—felt complex and real, making the film’s emotional core even more compelling.

Related: Best English Movies of 2024 You Can Stream Now!

Overall, Séance is a film that initially presents itself as a horror chiller but ultimately unfolds as a gothic drama, and I was thoroughly immersed in its world. The mood, the setting, the performances, and the themes explored—all of it is masterfully written and directed by Vivian Kerr. The internal conflicts each character faces are so well-crafted, adding layers to the story. With her previous film Scrap (2023) and now Séance, Kerr is proving herself to be an incredibly promising talent, skillfully navigating different genres and tackling varied stories and themes with each film. I look forward to seeing where her journey takes her next.

‘Séance’ Rating – 3.5/5