Ariana DeBose, the Oscar-winning actress known for her powerful performances, is back on the screen with her latest role in the horror film 'House of Spoils.' Directed and written by Bridget Savage Cole and Danielle Krudy, this Blumhouse production is set to premiere on Amazon Prime Video on October 3, 2024.
Plot and Setting
In 'House of Spoils,' DeBose plays an unnamed chef who leaves her prestigious position at a city restaurant to open her own eatery in a remote, haunted estate. Funded by a demanding investor, Andres (Arian Moayed), she faces numerous challenges, including kitchen chaos, self-doubt, and the supernatural presence of the estate's previous owner. The film delves deep into the pressures of the restaurant business and the chef's journey to create a unique culinary experience, aided by her sous chef, Lucia (Barbie Ferreira).
Culinary Drama and Horror Elements
The film stands out for its blend of culinary drama and horror elements. While it excels in portraying the intense kitchen environment and the creative process of menu development, it falls short in delivering consistent and impactful horror scenes. The movie's best moments are when it focuses on the chef's passion for cooking and her discovery of a hidden garden, which inspires her menu and adds a primal, earthy element to her cuisine.
Despite its unique premise, 'House of Spoils' struggles with its horror aspects. The film's scares are few and far between, and when they do occur, they are not overly intense or frightening. The third act, in particular, loses steam, with events that are unexplained or lack impact. This inconsistency makes the film feel like it is playing it too safe, failing to fully commit to its horror elements.
Performance and Direction
Ariana DeBose delivers a committed and compelling performance as the unnamed chef. Her portrayal is highlighted by her steely determination and passion for cooking, making her character believable and engaging. However, some critics argue that her performance can feel exaggerated due to the lack of tension and atmosphere in the film's horror scenes.
The direction by Bridget Savage Cole and Danielle Krudy is notable for its attempt to blend different genres, but it ultimately suffers from a lack of clear identity. The film's inability to fully lean into its horror elements or maintain a consistent tone results in a narrative that feels uncertain and sometimes disjointed.
Themes and Reception
The film touches on themes such as the pressures of the culinary world, sexism in the food industry, and the importance of staying true to one's creative vision. While it does not fully satisfy as a horror movie, it offers a compelling character study and an intriguing look at the culinary arts.
Overall, 'House of Spoils' is a unique and somewhat quirky film that will appeal more to fans of culinary dramas than to those seeking intense horror. With its release on Amazon Prime Video, it provides a light and engaging watch for the Halloween season, even if it does not reach the heights of true horror.
For those interested in the intersection of food and horror, 'House of Spoils' offers a fascinating, if imperfect, experience. It is a testament to Ariana DeBose's versatility as an actress and her ability to carry a film through its ups and downs. To learn more about the film and its themes, you can explore the concept of food in film, which has become a significant element in modern cinema.
