Director: Robert Florence
Genre: Horror, Psychological Thriller
Runtime: 85 minutes
Language: English
IMDb Rating: 4.5/10

Plot: A Killer’s Domain Unravels

The House of Him centers on a masked, misogynistic killer known only as “Him” (Richard Rankin), who has lured multiple women into his home to become his victims. His latest target, Anna (Louise Stewart), is brought into this claustrophobic setting under the guise of a photoshoot. As the narrative unfolds, the house itself begins to reveal unsettling secrets, with the voices and apparitions of previous victims emerging, challenging the killer’s perceived control and forcing Anna into a desperate struggle for survival. ​

Visual Style: Minimalist and Intimate

Director Robert Florence utilizes a single-location setting to craft an atmosphere of entrapment and tension. Filmed entirely within a residential home, the movie employs dim lighting and tight framing to enhance the sense of confinement. The choice to shoot in a familiar domestic environment juxtaposes the ordinary with the horrific, amplifying the unsettling nature of the narrative. ​

Cast: Intense Performances in Confined Spaces

Richard Rankin (Him): Delivers a chilling portrayal of the antagonist, embodying a calm yet menacing presence that dominates the screen. ​

Louise Stewart (Anna): Exhibits a compelling range of emotions, capturing the terror and resilience of a woman ensnared in a life-threatening predicament. ​

Kirsty Strain (Sophie): Provides a brief but impactful performance, setting the tone for the film’s exploration of victimization. ​

The limited cast contributes to the film’s intimate and intense atmosphere, with performances that delve into the psychological complexities of their characters.

Themes: Misogyny, Control, and Domestic Violence

At its core, The House of Him serves as an allegory for domestic abuse and the pervasive nature of misogyny. The film delves into the dynamics of power and control within a household, portraying the killer’s dominance and the psychological torment inflicted upon his victims. Through its narrative, the movie sheds light on the horrors that can lurk behind closed doors, offering a commentary on real-world issues of gender-based violence. ​

Reception: Divided Opinions Among Critics

The film has elicited mixed reactions from critics and audiences alike. Some praise its ambitious thematic undertakings and the performances of the lead actors, while others critique its pacing and execution. Den of Geek highlighted the film’s attempt to tackle issues of misogyny and domestic violence but noted that it “loses direction a little on the way.” Conversely, That Was A Bit Mental commended the film, stating it is “a brilliant film with a powerful message: the real horrors in life sometimes take place inside our own homes.” ​

The Critic’s Verdict

The House of Him offers a thought-provoking exploration of domestic horror, utilizing its confined setting to reflect the oppressive nature of abusive relationships. While its minimalist approach may not resonate with all viewers, the film’s thematic depth and committed performances provide a compelling, if unsettling, cinematic experience.​

Rating: 6/10

An intimate and disturbing portrayal of domestic terror that challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable realities.

Pair With

Hush (2016) for another tense home-based thriller, or Sleeping with the Enemy (1991) to explore similar themes of domestic abuse and survival.

Cultural Footprint

By addressing themes of misogyny and domestic violence within the framework of a horror film, The House of Him contributes to the broader conversation about gender dynamics and the hidden horrors that can exist within domestic spaces. Its indie production underscores the potential for low-budget films to tackle significant societal issues.​

Addition

In addition to its thematic depth, The House of Him is notable for its micro-budget production, reportedly made for less than £1,000. Director Robert Florence utilized his mother’s house as the sole filming location, showcasing a resourceful approach to independent filmmaking. This constrained setting not only amplifies the film’s claustrophobic atmosphere but also underscores the oppressive nature of the narrative. ​

Furthermore, the film’s score, composed by Iain Cook of the Scottish band Chvrches, adds a haunting layer to the movie’s ambiance. The electronic soundtrack evokes an ’80s horror vibe, reminiscent of classic films like Halloween, enhancing the overall unsettling experience.