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The House

The House (2012)

Apr 14, 2012 1h 49m Drama Mystery Thriller

Jean just quit her coveted job as an investment banker on Wall Street. After a soul-searching journey traveling around the world, she retreats to an empty vacation home owned by a friend's rich family. She unexpectedly finds herself sharing the place with some former occupants - a cynical college professor, his bitter sister married to a devoted husband, a disgruntled cab driver and a washed-up drifter; all of whom are not even supposed to be there, because they're actually dead. As Jean reluctantly confronts these souls as tormented as herself, they inevitably end up in an entangled mass of secrets and lies... This imaginative thriller roams in an out of the lives of lost souls, weaving reality with the other side.

Directed by Desiree Lim

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Desiree Lim
Writer
  • Desiree Lim

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The House examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Desiree Lim brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2012, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The House took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 109 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 145 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The musical score contains over 41 unique compositions.
  • The costume department created over 368 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 2012, when this film is released:
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While The House shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Scoop, which focuses more on action than character development, The House offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like The Sixth Sense and City of Angels explore similar territory, The House stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: April 14, 2012
  • Runtime: 1h 49m

Where to Watch

Fear Factory Amazon Channel
Indie Club Amazon Channel

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