A “thought-provoking” horror film streaming in the UK is hailed as “perfect” and is Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. His House (2020) tells the story of a refugee couple from war-torn South Sudan, Bol and Rial (played by Gangs of London star Sope Dirisu, and Moses Jones’ Wunmi Mosaku, respectively), who manage to escape to Britain.
The pair are traumatised by their journey and attempts to settle into a quiet English town. They move into a small, rundown house but begin to fear a powerful and mysterious evil has overtaken it.
Doctor Who and The Crown star Matt Smith stars as Mark, a housing officer sent to help the couple.
The film was written and directed by Remi Weekes, working from a story by Felicity Evans and Toby Venables.
One Audience Writer on Rotten Tomatoes said: “Amazing, thought-provoking, outstanding. This movie is a one in a lifetime commentary on trauma, grief and survivors guilt.
“I highly recommend watching this movie. The scares are few and far between but the emotion from the story telling can carry this movie all on its own.”
Another called it a “very intelligent and well paced film”. “His House manages to fullfil all the markers for a horror movie, painting a serious picture of the refugee experience, and all that while delivering brilliant performances from all the cast,” they added.
A fourth said: “Amazing story line. This movie is definitely one that everyone should see. The sad part of this movie are the many untold stories of Refugees.
One fan on IMDb gave the film 10/10 and described it as the “perfect horror movie”.
“Genuinely terrifying in parts. And also giving a view into a world of human experience that encompasses human-born horror, loss, grief, desperation, striving and hope,” they added. “I really cared for these characters and what happened to them, their story.
“I felt they were so real and believable in their struggle with one another, their love for one another, their tragic loss of community and connection, their being thrust into a cold, thin alienating, lonely new life in a strange land.
“Great actors , great script and engaging story, great camera work and yes, a twist. For me, there is a lot to like here and I will be looking out for more by this film-maker.”
The film was also well-received with critics, and boasts a 100% score from 168 reviews on Rotten Tomatoes’ Tomatometer, which reflects the percentage of approved critics who have given it a positive write up.
The film has a 15 rating and features injury detail, discrimination, threat, and violence – so may not be for everyone.
His House is streaming on Netflix now.