The Banishing

Unfortunately, an almost shockingly lifeless, old-fashioned ghost story. I like Christopher Smith, I think he’s an underrated author of small genre movies who still hasn’t managed to fully leave his mark, his films have always been worthy of attention, but The Banishing was quite a big disappointment. It’s nicely made in terms of cinematography and settings, but it failed to generate even a hint of interest in me. (03/31/2021)

Christopher Smith, director of the great Triangle and Black Death, delivers a gothic ghost story set in late 1930s England, in a mansion that hides a terrifying secret. The horror is skillfully mastered, the cinematography is impressive, the performances are more than solid – especially Sean Harris who steals most of the film for himself – and the period setting is faithful. It moves at a slightly slower pace, but I was attentive even at 2 am, and at times it is decent hallucinogenic with very effective and chilling scares (the walks through narrow underground corridors are impressive). There were also two nasty jump-scares, and I liked the religiously soaked atmosphere and the creepy monks with hoods. An old-school haunted house movie that works, but mainstream viewers may get bored. It is definitely not as boring as Saint Maud and The Night. Unfortunately, The Power beats The Banishing. 6-5/10. (03/26/2021)