The Guest (2014) – Be Careful Who You Let In

Starring: Dan Stevens, Maika Monroe,Leland Orser, Sheila Kelley, Brendan Meyer, and Lance Reddick

Synopsis: While the Petersons grieve over their son Caleb, a soldier who died in action, David appears at their doorstep claiming to have known him. At the same time, a series of killings begin in the town

A movie of many genres

While The Guest is an action thriller, it’s also a story with a lot more layers. Occasionally, it gets pretty frightening, but it’s also funny, intense, and dramatic. Every emotional reaction keeps your eyes glued to the screen and your attention captivated throughout the movie. Despite the wide scope, it all flows together smoothly.

As David, Dan Stevens is immensely likeable, even when questionable things begin to happen, you still want to root for him. An aura of badass surrounds him. Despite the fact that you have no idea what is going on in David’s mind, you know that there is more to him than meets the eye. He is played with such conviction that you are unable to see through him. Stevens delivers a killer performance.

There are many mixed themes in The Guest, which feels like a cross between the Bourne series and The Terminator. Director, Adam Wingard’s projects, which all seem to be made with passion, each have their own unique stamp, The Guest seems heavily influenced by John Carpenter, the music and atmosphere seem to come straight out of the John Carpenter universe.

Second Sight delivers another knockout

Re-releasing The Guest by Second Sight is the uplift this movie needs. The Guest is an intense, suspenseful piece of filmmaking that deserves more attention. Although Adam Wingard directs big blockbusters now (Godzilla vs Kong), I hope he remembers this gem and picks up again with the characters in the future.

The performance by Dan Stevens is an outstanding example of tongue-in-cheek tough anti-heroism from the 80’s. The way Stevens stares off into space whenever he is alone in his room is infectious, especially when he is putting you at ease one minute and then making your hair stand on end the next.

Verdict

You’ll watch this movie over and over again, the action is great, the suspense is thrilling, and the soundtrack will stick in your head long afterward!