The Underrated Thriller of the Year (So Far)
Last year, Joel Edgerton took a break from big blockbuster films and directed a small independent project that he also wrote. That movie was The Gift, which starred himself, Jason Bateman, and Rebecca Hall. It turned out to be a refreshing mystery with affecting drama and a great pay off. The movie came out of the blue and under everyone's radar and it turned out to be a wonderful treat to break of the monotony that naturally comes after having several giant explosion heavy superhero movies every year. Do not get me wrong, they are a lot of fun, but sometimes you need a change of pace and The Gift was a wonderful one. This year, it has happened again with The Invitation. Directed by Karyn Kusama, who previously directed the very problematic Aeon Flux and Jennifer's Body, and written by Phil Hay and Matt Manfredi, who also worked on Aeon Flux but also wrote Ride Along 2 and directed Tracy Lett's Bug, this film film feels like it wants to break free on its own terms. It has no studio dictating how it needs to be made. It has nothing to prove and no expectations to fulfill. This is a passion project and it is one that really works. The Invitation is an incredibly affecting mystery/thriller that has an unexpected emotional punch. Just like The Gift last year, The Invitation is a gem that feels fresh and deserves your time.
Note: if you are at all interested in seeing this movie, just do it. Stop reading and go. Like 10 Cloverfield Lane just recently, you will have a much better experience knowing next to nothing about it going in. It is currently in select theaters, but it is also available on every major VOD platform, including YouTube and Google Play. It is only 5-7 bucks to rent. There is no reason why you should not see this movie. Go do it. You will not regret it. If you feel like you need to know more, read on at your own risk. I will not spoil anything intentionally, but you have been warned.
