Synopsis – A soldier introduces himself to the Peterson family, claiming to be a friend of their son who died in action. After the young man is welcomed into their home, a series of accidental deaths seem to be connected to his presence.

My Take – I was lucky enough to attend the special screening of this brilliant action horror thriller from the director & writer of You’re Next (2011). Entertaining throughout, the film moves at an ideal pace starting of with the formations and later development of a relationship between the lead & other characters following it up with an insane finale.

Director Adam Wingard dares to use a predictable plot & manages to keep it different, humorous & intense. He has taken everything you know about the action, horror, and thriller genres and blend them together into a tasty and compelling concoction. The film relies completely on Dan Stevens, literally the soul of this film. He trips you on a roller-coaster ride of emotions as you get to know his character and re-discover him all in the span of around 99 minutes.

Stevens does all this with steely charm and commanding eyes that have a sort of mesmerizing effect on whoever he’s interacting with while (as the audience) rooting for him whether he does a good or a bad. Maika Monroe, Brendan Meyer, Leland Orser & Lance Reddick provide good supporting performances. Overall The Guest is a simple minded thriller with enough humor & shock to keep you hooked on a thrill ride from start to the finish line courtesy of Dan Stevens. Must Watch!!

Director – Adam Wingard

Starring – Dan Stevens, Sheila Kelley, Maika Monroe

Rated – R

Run Time – 99 minutes