Reel Review: Hauntology (2024)

“Hauntology” (2024) is a haunting tapestry that weaves together supernatural chills, psychological unease, and poignant social commentary.

Written and directed by Parker Brennon, Hauntology is an anthology horror film that stands out in the crowded horror landscape by offering a fresh, introspective take on the genre, blending queer themes with eerie narratives that linger long after the credits roll.

Imagine a road trip where the landmarks are haunted houses, the pit stops are portals to the past, and your tour guide is your older sister. Welcome to Hauntology, a film that turns the rearview mirror into a looking glass, reflecting centuries of family secrets, societal oppression, and spectral vengeance.

The film is anchored by Jaidyn Triplett’s compelling performance as Venus, a young queer protagonist whose personal struggles form the emotional core of the wraparound story. As Venus listens to a series of ghost stories told by her sister, Jazmin (Samantha Russell), the audience is drawn into four distinct yet interconnected tales of terror, each masterfully directed by Brennon to explore different facets of horror while maintaining a cohesive tone.

The story begins when Jazmin catches up with her runaway sister, Venus. Instead of dragging her home, Jazmin offers a deal: she’ll help Venus escape their troubled home life, but only after a detour through their hometown’s haunted history.

What follows is a kaleidoscope of horror sub-genres, each vignette a blood-spattered love letter to everything from giallo slashers to psychological thrillers. Brennon’s direction is like a masterful DJ set, seamlessly mixing these disparate elements into a cohesive, bone-chilling experience. The pacing is deliberate, building tension like a slowly tightening noose, while the cinematography paints each frame with shadows that seem to breathe.

The anthology’s true power lies in its focus on LGBTQ+ characters and people of color, groups often sidelined or stereotyped in traditional horror.

Hauntology doesn’t just include diverse characters; it makes their experiences central to the terror and triumph of each tale.

In “Witchcraft Becomes Her,” we witness a literal transformation as Julian Cashel transitions from male (Ace Rosas) to female (Zoey Luna) with the help of a witch (Naomi Grossman), only to face a demonic embodiment of toxic masculinity. It’s supernatural horror meets gender affirmation in a way that’s both empowering and chilling.

“The Day Mabel Came Out of the Grave” gives new meaning to the phrase “love never dies.” When the ghost of Venus’ ancestor, Mabel Bishop (Jacinda Forbes), returns, she finds a second chance at sapphic love in a more accepting era. It’s a bittersweet reminder that some hauntings are born of longing, not malevolence.

Art lovers will be both enthralled and disturbed by “Paint and Black Lace,” a Giallo-inspired segment that turns art forgery into a blood sport. The deceased artist, May Felner (Kim Lea Mays), takes revenge on those who dare to copy her work, turning their bodies into macabre masterpieces.

The anthology’s crowning jewel is “The Old Dark Cashel House,” where the past and present collide in a battle against generational trauma. As journalist Madeline Ishii (Lindsey McDowell) faces off against the malevolent spirit of William Cashel (James DeForest Parker), we’re reminded that sometimes the most terrifying monsters are those born out of hatred and intolerance.

What sets Hauntology apart from many anthology films is its strong connective tissue.

Brennon’s skillful direction ensures that each segment, while distinct in its sub-genre approach, contributes to a larger narrative tapestry. The film explores the isolation, fear, and “otherness” experienced by queer, BIPOC, and feminine perspectives, creating a horror experience that is as emotionally resonant as it is spine-chilling.

Hauntology doesn’t just throw scares at you; it makes you question the very nature of hauntings. Are ghosts merely echoes of the past, or are they unfinished conversations with history? The film suggests that to move forward, we must first confront the specters of our collective past.

The ensemble cast — including horror icon Nancy Loomis (Halloween), the bewitching Naomi Grossman (American Horror Story), and the luminous Samantha Robinson (The Love Witch) — is particularly impressive for an independent production. The actors bring depth and nuance to their roles, creating characters that feel authentic and relatable.

As Venus learns about her family’s long history of non-conformity and resistance, Hauntology becomes more than just a horror anthology.

It’s a rallying cry for the outsiders, the misfits, and the persecuted. It suggests that our greatest strength lies not in conforming to the rules of the past but in rewriting them for a more inclusive future.

Technically, the film shines. It looks fantastic, and the soundtrack, with its 80s-inspired synth tones, adds a layer of nostalgia that complements the modern storytelling. However, its greatest strength lies in its slow-burning tension and character-driven narratives.

Hauntology is a compelling watch for horror fans who appreciate thoughtful, character-driven stories that explore deeper themes like identity and belonging — repression and rebellion. While it may not satisfy those seeking pure adrenaline-fueled terror, it offers a rich, nuanced horror experience that lingers in the mind.

By weaving together tales of small-town prejudice and injustice, Brennon has created a horror anthology that feels timeless and contemporary.

For those willing to embrace its more introspective approach to horror, Hauntology offers a rewarding and substantive viewing experience.