Honestly, I don't care which elements from other films people may think this movie borrowed from. In the grand scheme of things, it doesn't matter. I won't repeat much of what other reviews have said already, but I was all in until the ending. Had they just cut to black as she approached the kids in the stuck vehicle, it would have been much more satisfying.
796 Reviews
A great concept dragged down by poor writing
jg_197721 February 2020
Warning: Spoilers
The Lodge is the latest entry in the trend of horror-dramas, like Hereditary, The Babadook, and It Follows, which are light on jump scares and more concerned with telling a compelling human-story that slowly builds up the tension to a powerful climax. However, unlike its predecessors, I think that The Lodge muddles the story that the horror is built around. The core concept is a solid, classic set-up: a group of characters with conflicting interests are trapped in an isolated place and pushed to the brink of their sanity until all hell breaks loose. But the film failed at sucking me in and getting me invested in the characters, which dulled the impact when the horrific events began happening. The biggest culprit is how the main character of Grace was written. Despite having a compelling backstory, I never felt like I knew what her wants, needs, and weaknesses were, which resulted in her coming off as a lifeless shell who the plot happened to, not because of. I think with stronger and clearer characterization, Grace would have made a very sympathetic protagonist that I wouldn't want bad things to happen to, allowing the horror to be more effective. Additionally, the dialogue in parts felt very clunky and unnatural, possibly stemming from being written by non-English speaking screenwriters. Ultimately, by the end of the movie, my suspension-of-disbelief was completely broken, so no matter how well-executed the horror was, I was disengaged and just waiting for the movie to end. Which is a real shame, because the movie does have some clever and impressive horror sequences that would really hit home if the writing had been on par. My advice would be to wait for this one to become available digitally and to skip it in theaters. It's worth a watch for horror die-hards but not at the full price of a ticket.
In all honesty
afelic10169 May 2020
This movie is relatively good. Movie goers cannot seem to watch movies for what they are now but constantly need to analyze and compare elements of the movie to other films. This movie is a little on the slower side. If you like slow building, psychological thrillers, this one is for you.
Had potential
DarkLady215 September 2019
Warning: Spoilers
I was quite excited with this movie and just saw it at the Lisbon International Horror Filme Festival.
In fact, this movie seemed really brilliant on its first half, building tension and causing some doubts on the audience about the existence of paranormal stuff going on or not. The problem is exactly the storyline, really confusing and lacking some explanations on the second half of the movie and the slow pace.
Final twist was expected to save the day but it was the opposite.
In fact, this movie seemed really brilliant on its first half, building tension and causing some doubts on the audience about the existence of paranormal stuff going on or not. The problem is exactly the storyline, really confusing and lacking some explanations on the second half of the movie and the slow pace.
Final twist was expected to save the day but it was the opposite.
"You know how to open the door."
classicsoncall29 March 2021
Warning: Spoilers
The movie plays out more like a psychological thriller than a horror film, as the horror implied has more to do with Grace Marshall's (Riley Keough) nightmares and the revenge plan concocted by siblings Aiden (Jaeden Martell) and Mia (Lia McHugh) Hall. That revenge plan butts up against the guilt Grace perceives over the marital breakup between their father (Richard Armitage) and mother (Alicia Silverstone), and the mom's subsequent suicide. I have to say, the scene in which Laura Hall kills herself happened so quickly that one doesn't have time to prepare for it as the viewer. If you wanted to point to a jump scare in the picture, that would probably be the first and only one because it was very effectively done. The nagging question one is forced to focus on was why in the world Richard would have fallen into a relationship with the sole survivor of a suicide cult that left thirty eight people dead. You would have to know that there would remain lingering effects of such a horrific event that it would eventually stain the relationship, and in this case it led to utter destruction. I have my doubts whether a teenage boy and his younger sister could come up with such an elaborate plan as they did to drive their future mom crazy; the phony newspaper story showing they all died due to a faulty gas heater was icing on the cake. Had they known it would have ended in a finale where they had to repent for their sins, I think they might have been more accepting of their father's fiancée.
Makes me angry rather than scared
Gordon-113 May 2020
Unknown genre
danityenon14 October 2019
Warning: Spoilers
I came in and thought this is going to be a 'sinister, paranormal' type of a horror movie (according to the unreliable trailer), but it turned out to be a psychological thriller that rattled me.
All through the movie i was trying to realize what is this dark entity that is haunting the characters. Then it turned out to be nothing but a faux that shocked me.
I liked this film. It was definitely a nice experience watching it. But during the watch i was so confused on what was going on. If this is what the creators intended to do by making this film then very good job. But I feel that that confused feeling is kind of what made this film not as good as I wanted it to be.
Other than that- great making. Photography is good and the main atmosphere this film has is a character on its own.
You Know You Need a Refresher Course in Parenting When...
JonnyDR7524 May 2020
Warning: Spoilers
So what if my ex-wife, the mother of my two young children, blew her brains out just 7 months ago after finding out I'm marrying my new, teenage girlfriend. I think I'll take my grieving kids and said new girlfriend, the only surviving member of a suicidal cult, to a remote cabin, then leave the three of them there for several days while I run a work errand. What could possibly go wrong?
It won't be for everyone, but The Lodge is an effective exercise in slow descending isolation and insanity
IonicBreezeMachine30 August 2020
The Lodge has been a rather divisive point between critics and audiences, audiences have been more split on the film while critics have been more inclined to view the film favorably. This is not a movie made for a mass horror audience like the films made by Blumhouse or Atomic Monster, rather this is a character study with a no holds barred approach to its themes of lingering trauma and toxic religiosity. The film follows Aiden(Jaeden Martell) and Mia(Lia McHugh) who after the suicide of their mother Laura(Alicia Silverstone) live with their father Richard(Richard Armitage) and soon to be stepmother Grace (Riley Keough). Richard, needing to work through the holiday season arranges for the two to spend time with Grace at lodge in the woods that they frequent in the hopes that they will bond, but once there strange happenings coupled with the lingering resentment and bitterness felt by Aiden and Mia towards Grace for their mother's suicide a slow decent into terror begins.
The Lodge as horror film is very effective at building its mood and atmosphere. The titular lodge becomes a character itself with its empty halls, surrounding frozen landscapes, and generally sense of foreboding created by its minimal lighting and cavernous nature. Be it in the dark of the night or the light of day there is never any sense of comfort felt while in the lodge and a general feeling of unease permeates the film.
The characters aren't written with much in the way of depth, but they do effectively convey the feelings we expect given the circumstances. The crushing despair felt during the opening act's funeral, the mixture of boredom, restlessness, and unease felt during the second act, and finally the sheer terror and resignation that serves as the penultimate lead up to the films final moments. It's a movie where the minimalism is put to good use because it respects its audience enough not to through in a jump scare every few minutes.
The overall narrative deals with heavy themes of grief and religion as the two kids, Aiden and Mia, are devout Catholics as raised by their deceased mother Laura. Grace herself has distanced herself from religion later in life as her involvement with a extremist Christian cult left her with lingering trauma that serves as another point of contention between herself and the children. A key point in which the religious themes come into play is because the children are Catholic they believe their mothers soul will never be able to find peace.
The Lodge uses its themes of religiosity sparingly, and it's not so much of an indictment of religion itself, but more of the followers of said religions who twist what was once a well meaning doctrine into justification for acts of ugliness and barbarism that while not as explicitly graphic as your average Saw or Hostel film leave a haunting emptiness once we bear witness to the proceedings.
With that said however this movie will not be to everyone's taste. The movie is a slow burn with long stretches broken up by the occasional nightmare or sudden noise and there's very little dialogue among the characters so the audience will need to actively look for character in subtle interactions rather than through conversation. The films use of religious iconography may also seem insulting to some who feel themselves to be among the faithful but with that said I don't believe this film to carry any ill will towards the majority of Christians and it's more about those who twist the doctrine as justification for heinous actions. However the ending may leave some wondering where the film stands given where we eventually end up, but it does make a good topic of conversation for people to explore their differing views.
The Lodge is an effectively unsettling slow burn horror film that uses its minimalist aesthetics economically and effectively. From its effective performances to its barren landscapes and claustrophobic cinematography it'll leave viewers in a state of unease that makes them feel as though they're stuck in the titular lodge along side the characters.
The Lodge as horror film is very effective at building its mood and atmosphere. The titular lodge becomes a character itself with its empty halls, surrounding frozen landscapes, and generally sense of foreboding created by its minimal lighting and cavernous nature. Be it in the dark of the night or the light of day there is never any sense of comfort felt while in the lodge and a general feeling of unease permeates the film.
The characters aren't written with much in the way of depth, but they do effectively convey the feelings we expect given the circumstances. The crushing despair felt during the opening act's funeral, the mixture of boredom, restlessness, and unease felt during the second act, and finally the sheer terror and resignation that serves as the penultimate lead up to the films final moments. It's a movie where the minimalism is put to good use because it respects its audience enough not to through in a jump scare every few minutes.
The overall narrative deals with heavy themes of grief and religion as the two kids, Aiden and Mia, are devout Catholics as raised by their deceased mother Laura. Grace herself has distanced herself from religion later in life as her involvement with a extremist Christian cult left her with lingering trauma that serves as another point of contention between herself and the children. A key point in which the religious themes come into play is because the children are Catholic they believe their mothers soul will never be able to find peace.
The Lodge uses its themes of religiosity sparingly, and it's not so much of an indictment of religion itself, but more of the followers of said religions who twist what was once a well meaning doctrine into justification for acts of ugliness and barbarism that while not as explicitly graphic as your average Saw or Hostel film leave a haunting emptiness once we bear witness to the proceedings.
With that said however this movie will not be to everyone's taste. The movie is a slow burn with long stretches broken up by the occasional nightmare or sudden noise and there's very little dialogue among the characters so the audience will need to actively look for character in subtle interactions rather than through conversation. The films use of religious iconography may also seem insulting to some who feel themselves to be among the faithful but with that said I don't believe this film to carry any ill will towards the majority of Christians and it's more about those who twist the doctrine as justification for heinous actions. However the ending may leave some wondering where the film stands given where we eventually end up, but it does make a good topic of conversation for people to explore their differing views.
The Lodge is an effectively unsettling slow burn horror film that uses its minimalist aesthetics economically and effectively. From its effective performances to its barren landscapes and claustrophobic cinematography it'll leave viewers in a state of unease that makes them feel as though they're stuck in the titular lodge along side the characters.
One of the Best Films I Have Recently Seen
claudio_carvalho10 May 2020
"The Lodge" is one of the best films I have recently seen. It is impossible to write a synopsis without spoiler since the movie has many plot points. The story and the mystery are engaging and the viewer does not know what is happening to Grace and the kids. This a psychological horror film and the conclusion is perfect for the situation. I believed Richard Armitage was Hugh Jackman, my mistake. My vote is seven.
Title (Brazil): Not Available
Title (Brazil): Not Available
The "Twist" Lodges in my Throat
lincolnhawk-8737719 August 2020
Warning: Spoilers
I understand that these days horror movies apparently must have a massive "twist", mandatory, must-have, got it. My issue is that the twist needs to be at least somewhat sold to me; you can't just throw one in there and not put any work into making it palatable, somewhat believable. To not do so is just lazy and insulting. The writers get to say, "they won't see THIS coming!", but I say well, of course we don't, because it is completely unbelievable. I understand the concept of suspension of belief in movies, but there must be a limit. The twist you are supposed to swallow without spitting it right back out is that basically this child, the son (I don't know how old he is supposed to be, he looks around 14 or so) is a psychological puppet master, capable of orchestrating an incredibly elaborate and complex premeditated act of psychological warfare on the "stepmother" who, as far as I understand he has never actually met. I cannot swallow this. Even if I could swallow THAT (which I cannot), if this child IS capable of Hannibal Lecter-calibre mind-manipulating genius, why would he risk putting his sister's life in danger as a consequence of such behaviour? If he is smart enough to carry out such a plan, surely he is smart enough to see the danger of driving a mentally unstable, grown woman insane in an isolated cabin in the middle of nowhere in the dead of winter? And that is without breaking it down further; the levels of premeditation and planning required to take the movie to where it ultimately goes is just ludicrous. Having the kids sit whispering in front of the dollhouse while they move the dolls around and then packing some strange items in their bags pre-trip just doesn't cut it as adequate backstory to sell the twist. "Oh, but remember, they were planning out the different scenarios using the dollhouse - they had it all figured out. And don't forget, they packed some candles and a framed photograph, we laid the groundwork, the twist is justified". No. Nowhere near acceptable. Then you add in all the other contrivances. The father, despite being a trained psychiatrist/psychologist who actually TREATED the "stepmother", fully aware of her history, mental state and the medications she is on, decides that leaving her alone in an isolated cabin with his young children - who she has never met - at Christmas, 6 months after their mother blew her brains out all over the dining room wall is a good idea. Oh, and with access to a gun. That he shows her how to use, before realising she is in fact extremely competent with handguns, unloading the gun into a tree one-handed, Dirty Harry-style. Blatant, inexplicable misdirection slopped on to unnecessarily disguise a twist that nobody should be able to spot coming as it is absolutely ridiculous in nature, like the dog ominously growling at night, doors creaking open by themselves. Listing all the plot contrivances and the sheer intricacy of the children's plan is unnecessary, suffice it to say, the twist just isn't plausible on any level and as a result ruins the movie as soon as it is "revealed". The actual look of the movie was fine, well-shot, atmospheric, the acting was solid all round, but again, for me, all the good is spoiled by the ludicrous twist. It always surprises me how such behaviour doesn't bother so many people, many reviewers giving such movies 10 stars, completely ignoring the fact that they have been insulted in order for the writers to feel clever with their fancy "twists". At the other end of the spectrum, the 1 star reviews complain that the movie was trying to be "The Shining" or "Hereditary". This was not the issue, the issue was the indigestible twist. I spit this back in the writers' faces, not eating it, no thanks.
Horror "fans" are very fussy apparently
ecvoid28 April 2020
Warning: Spoilers
Movies that rely on obvious means of conveying fright are criticised for utilising "cheap scares". While those that build atmosphere and tension such as this title are called "boring and nonsensical". As a charitable fan of all things horror I can appreciate everything this genre encompasses if it's executed decently. Maybe not so much when it comes to slashers and torture features.
The Lodge is a slow burner that sets an unnerving mood pretty effectively. There is a trail of breadcrumbs that although was initially slightly puzzling had the effect to keep my interest peaked right until the twist. The movie weaves ideas such as grief, resentment and trauma into a very good guessing game. Yes, it's been done before but in my opinion this time around felt better. Maybe it was because of the acting, which I really enjoyed, perhaps the choice of setting even. Or maybe due to how the pieces of the puzzle weren't made to fall into place neither forcefully nor conveniently. My biggest surprise was that the twist reveal, which happened after roughly 2 thirds of the movie, wasn't the only payoff. Instead the movie added a karmic resolution on top, that although unsettling, made absolute sense. I honestly don't know what the angry reviewers watched but they might want to keep the insults towards the directors of this movie to a minimum if they can't be objective. As for parallels to other films, honestly besides minimal similarities to Goodnight Mommy (same directors after all) I couldn't see anything else. There is also the whole "entertain multiple possibilities until the reveal" type of storytelling that I previously mentioned. Another theme The Lodge explores is the dark side of religion that could have contributed to, in my opinion, the unfairly low rating of this movie.
For me The Lodge hit the spot with its creepy atmosphere, bleak overtones and the subdued but true to the situation way of acting. Sadly these very same aspects might have displeased some viewers.
The Lodge is a slow burner that sets an unnerving mood pretty effectively. There is a trail of breadcrumbs that although was initially slightly puzzling had the effect to keep my interest peaked right until the twist. The movie weaves ideas such as grief, resentment and trauma into a very good guessing game. Yes, it's been done before but in my opinion this time around felt better. Maybe it was because of the acting, which I really enjoyed, perhaps the choice of setting even. Or maybe due to how the pieces of the puzzle weren't made to fall into place neither forcefully nor conveniently. My biggest surprise was that the twist reveal, which happened after roughly 2 thirds of the movie, wasn't the only payoff. Instead the movie added a karmic resolution on top, that although unsettling, made absolute sense. I honestly don't know what the angry reviewers watched but they might want to keep the insults towards the directors of this movie to a minimum if they can't be objective. As for parallels to other films, honestly besides minimal similarities to Goodnight Mommy (same directors after all) I couldn't see anything else. There is also the whole "entertain multiple possibilities until the reveal" type of storytelling that I previously mentioned. Another theme The Lodge explores is the dark side of religion that could have contributed to, in my opinion, the unfairly low rating of this movie.
For me The Lodge hit the spot with its creepy atmosphere, bleak overtones and the subdued but true to the situation way of acting. Sadly these very same aspects might have displeased some viewers.
Bring a warm blanket or a sweatshirt
kim_smoltz6 November 2019
I attended the east coast premiere of "The Lodge" a few weeks ago and can say it will most likely be 2020's most polarizing and divisive horror release.
If you've seen Franz & Fiala's last film, "Goodnight Mommy," you'll have an idea of what to expect in terms of tone and themes. The cinematography is breathtaking, and Riley Keough's performance is unbelievable. Like "Mommy" the central characters are two siblings who are up against some sort of unknown/unstable maternal presence while existing in isolation. Instead of a vast, lonely European farm, "The Lodge" features exactly what the title suggests -- a mountain lodge in the middle of nowhere. It's so well done that you can almost feel the icy frost in the theater as the film progresses.
Franz & Fiala take a lot of cues from Ari Aster, ESPECIALLY "Midsommar," in depicting sudden tragedy and brutal, existential grief that consistently drips off the screen. Additionally, there are underlying themes of mental illness and psychosis that are done really well and tactfully -- although I might add it may not seem so at first. Sorry if that's cryptic, I just don't want to give any spoilers. The ending will knock you on your ass. I couldn't move after the screening, I was frozen for half the credit roll, and couldn't stop thinking about it for days.
I highly recommend "The Lodge" for fans of Aster's work, or if you liked "Goodnight Mommy" and want more of the same slow-burn insanity.
If you've seen Franz & Fiala's last film, "Goodnight Mommy," you'll have an idea of what to expect in terms of tone and themes. The cinematography is breathtaking, and Riley Keough's performance is unbelievable. Like "Mommy" the central characters are two siblings who are up against some sort of unknown/unstable maternal presence while existing in isolation. Instead of a vast, lonely European farm, "The Lodge" features exactly what the title suggests -- a mountain lodge in the middle of nowhere. It's so well done that you can almost feel the icy frost in the theater as the film progresses.
Franz & Fiala take a lot of cues from Ari Aster, ESPECIALLY "Midsommar," in depicting sudden tragedy and brutal, existential grief that consistently drips off the screen. Additionally, there are underlying themes of mental illness and psychosis that are done really well and tactfully -- although I might add it may not seem so at first. Sorry if that's cryptic, I just don't want to give any spoilers. The ending will knock you on your ass. I couldn't move after the screening, I was frozen for half the credit roll, and couldn't stop thinking about it for days.
I highly recommend "The Lodge" for fans of Aster's work, or if you liked "Goodnight Mommy" and want more of the same slow-burn insanity.
Fell Flat
dnbaeb31 May 2020
Warning: Spoilers
This movie started out eerily with the mom killing herself, but then it just spiraled into a dark abyss. Not to mention that it was so long and drawn out. The dollhouse contrasting with real life. The weird girlfriend, the dumb father (BTW-who leaves their children w/someone the kids just met after losing their mom to suicide???). Oh my goodness just a flat, dull and ridiculous movie.
WEIRD...HAUNTING...DISTURBING...PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER
LeonLouisRicci1 September 2021
Two Children Still Suffering from the very Disturbing Loss of Their Mother are Cooped Up in an Isolated "Lodge" with Their New Step-Mother During a Snowstorm.
The Step-Mother, who by the way, is Blamed by the Children as the Reason They Lost Their Mom.
She is also a Traumatized Victim of Her Father, a Religious Cult Leader who Led His Flock to Mass Suicide, She was the Only Survivor.
What Could Possibly Go Wrong?
Well as You might have Guessed, Quite a Lot.
The Movie is Atmospheric and Frightful, Disturbing and Gets in Your Brain and Under Your Skin,
The Suspense is nearly Unbearable and Unrelenting, and all Three Actors Deliver Cutting Performances while Spinning the "What is Real and What is Not" Scenario.
More Thriller than Horror, but the "Supernatural" Plays a Significant Part in the Unfolding Plot as the Characters are Coming Unglued from Stability.
The Movie-Makers take No Prisoners with Regards to Shock and Unsettling Occurrences with Chilling Developments and a Stone-Cold, Depressing Tone.
Not a Must-See and Not for Everyone.
But those who Like Their Scary Movies Anchored Internally with Psychological Abnormalities that can Cause Disheveling Behavior...
This one comes with a Strong Recommendation.
The Step-Mother, who by the way, is Blamed by the Children as the Reason They Lost Their Mom.
She is also a Traumatized Victim of Her Father, a Religious Cult Leader who Led His Flock to Mass Suicide, She was the Only Survivor.
What Could Possibly Go Wrong?
Well as You might have Guessed, Quite a Lot.
The Movie is Atmospheric and Frightful, Disturbing and Gets in Your Brain and Under Your Skin,
The Suspense is nearly Unbearable and Unrelenting, and all Three Actors Deliver Cutting Performances while Spinning the "What is Real and What is Not" Scenario.
More Thriller than Horror, but the "Supernatural" Plays a Significant Part in the Unfolding Plot as the Characters are Coming Unglued from Stability.
The Movie-Makers take No Prisoners with Regards to Shock and Unsettling Occurrences with Chilling Developments and a Stone-Cold, Depressing Tone.
Not a Must-See and Not for Everyone.
But those who Like Their Scary Movies Anchored Internally with Psychological Abnormalities that can Cause Disheveling Behavior...
This one comes with a Strong Recommendation.
You Reap What You Sow
Vanillafinch17 May 2020
Warning: Spoilers
I thought this movie was pretty good. I'm your pretty cliche horror fan, so I like some jump scares and a spooky plot. I'm usually wary of more "subtle" artsy horror movies because I think sometimes they're overhyped and boring and I was thinking this could be one of those.
This isn't really a horror movie though, it's more of a psychological thriller in my opinion.
I liked that the movie gave you this very stereotypical idea of what the movie is going to be about early on (crazy new girlfriend tortures grieving children while dad is aloof to the whole thing) and then slowly you find out Grace is actually pretty much the only victim of this entire movie.
I like the kids being the antagonists in the movie because it felt sort of believable that kids who hated their future stepmom and don't really understand the true nature of her mental health issues could do some seriously hurtful things. I like a dark ending and honestly it felt a little justified. I'm not sure if we're supposed to feel not terribly sorry that the kids that broke a women's mind in the end pay the ultimate price? But it definitely felt like a "you reap what you sow" moment.
The cinematography is great and the acting is really great too!
There were some off things that bugged me though. The father being the biggest one. Is it really believable that a man would be a big enough fool to orchestrate some trip to lock his children in a house with this woman they literally despise by themselves? Also, he seemed to know very little about a woman he had plans to marry and leave his kids alone with. I'm supposed to believe she's never once done the creepy sleepwalking thing with him? Or that he wouldn't know she's on medication for what is obviously severe PTSD?
I'm also a bit confused about the plethora of "pranks" the kids play on her. Did they let the dog out on purpose? Because that's sick. Did Aiden make up this sheet showing they've all died before the trip? Because there was no power in the house most of the time because if so, he's probably the sickest character in the show. Also the snow angels seemed a bit impossible for two kids. I've chalked a couple of these things up to Grace's deteriorating mental state. Since the movie is mostly from her POV I suppose it's possible she imagined the snow angels as she was clearly hallucinating some of the time. The movie also is a bit too long. I find this a common issue with the more artsy horror/thriller movies.
Anyway, I say it's worth the watch. Not really scary in the traditional sense but more scary in that humans are terrible and we do awful things to each other that sometimes result in loss of life.
I'm also a bit confused about the plethora of "pranks" the kids play on her. Did they let the dog out on purpose? Because that's sick. Did Aiden make up this sheet showing they've all died before the trip? Because there was no power in the house most of the time because if so, he's probably the sickest character in the show. Also the snow angels seemed a bit impossible for two kids. I've chalked a couple of these things up to Grace's deteriorating mental state. Since the movie is mostly from her POV I suppose it's possible she imagined the snow angels as she was clearly hallucinating some of the time. The movie also is a bit too long. I find this a common issue with the more artsy horror/thriller movies.
Anyway, I say it's worth the watch. Not really scary in the traditional sense but more scary in that humans are terrible and we do awful things to each other that sometimes result in loss of life.
Psychological Horror, just not scary
mattlloyd-977049 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Trigger Warning: Suicide
First, never has a full cast death ever been so desired.
Dad leaves wife for a younger woman (Grace).
Mom offs herself because she can't handle it and decides sticking around for her kids doesn't matter.
Dad leaves kids with Grace for Christmas at their cabin 6 hours away and gives her the password to the gun.
Grace has childhood religious trauma from her dad being a suicide cult leader but has pills to help regulate herself.
Kids research this info and draw up an elaborate plan to get Grace to kill herself by making her think she's stuck in pergatory.
The son is a nasty little pervert who likes to peep on Grace in the shower.
Daughter kills Grace's dog.
Kids hide her pills and all of the stuff in the house to convince her it's pergatory.
Grace has a psychotic break. Prays. Repents. Violent penance.
The world is a better place without the kids. Trust.
First, never has a full cast death ever been so desired.
Dad leaves wife for a younger woman (Grace).
Mom offs herself because she can't handle it and decides sticking around for her kids doesn't matter.
Dad leaves kids with Grace for Christmas at their cabin 6 hours away and gives her the password to the gun.
Grace has childhood religious trauma from her dad being a suicide cult leader but has pills to help regulate herself.
Kids research this info and draw up an elaborate plan to get Grace to kill herself by making her think she's stuck in pergatory.
The son is a nasty little pervert who likes to peep on Grace in the shower.
Daughter kills Grace's dog.
Kids hide her pills and all of the stuff in the house to convince her it's pergatory.
Grace has a psychotic break. Prays. Repents. Violent penance.
The world is a better place without the kids. Trust.
Textbook style over substance case.
RobertWhitebrow6 May 2020
I am not surprised at all at the negative reviews. This movie starts well, sets up the story well and then falls flat so hard it's like taking the popcorn out of the oven as soon as one pops - it smells nice, but in reality you're left with only hard, tasteless kernels.
Let's address the elephant in the room. This is NOT an intelligent movie. However, it does have enough pretentious cinematography to make some people think it is. That being said I am a fan of said cinematography AS A SET UP, but not as your entire substance. I have no idea why some people are calling this innovative as it simply isn't. Long drawn out shots of a darkened empty hallway or a window while someone frantically plucks at an untuned violin and radio-filtered whispers is neither ground-breaking not original. Yes, it's uncomfortable so overdoing it will elicit an emotional reaction, which some people mistake for the effect of good writing.
Now, beyond the elephant. The story goes absolutely nowhere. If the movie is original with anything it's that the ending is so mediocre and so little attempt has been made to make it interesting that it's a rarity in the genre. If you know there is no twist ending you can guess the finish a good 15 minutes after the word go. The characters are profoundly unlikable aside from the dad, who appears briefly at the beginning and the end. There is "creepy" scenes which go nowhere and have absolutely no explanation, nor do they contribute to the plot (I am looking at you 100 snow angels).
That being said I do appreciate movies which try to at least get part of the equation right and this one, as stated above, has a good first part. Now, if only movie-makers learned that you need to know how to finish a story too. So, while I wouldn't wholeheartedly recommend it, if you're into eating only the first couple of popcorns of the bunch and being disappointed by the rest, go for it. Just be warned - the moment you start asking yourself "ok so where is this all going" is the moment when you know the movie is well past its peak".
Let's address the elephant in the room. This is NOT an intelligent movie. However, it does have enough pretentious cinematography to make some people think it is. That being said I am a fan of said cinematography AS A SET UP, but not as your entire substance. I have no idea why some people are calling this innovative as it simply isn't. Long drawn out shots of a darkened empty hallway or a window while someone frantically plucks at an untuned violin and radio-filtered whispers is neither ground-breaking not original. Yes, it's uncomfortable so overdoing it will elicit an emotional reaction, which some people mistake for the effect of good writing.
Now, beyond the elephant. The story goes absolutely nowhere. If the movie is original with anything it's that the ending is so mediocre and so little attempt has been made to make it interesting that it's a rarity in the genre. If you know there is no twist ending you can guess the finish a good 15 minutes after the word go. The characters are profoundly unlikable aside from the dad, who appears briefly at the beginning and the end. There is "creepy" scenes which go nowhere and have absolutely no explanation, nor do they contribute to the plot (I am looking at you 100 snow angels).
That being said I do appreciate movies which try to at least get part of the equation right and this one, as stated above, has a good first part. Now, if only movie-makers learned that you need to know how to finish a story too. So, while I wouldn't wholeheartedly recommend it, if you're into eating only the first couple of popcorns of the bunch and being disappointed by the rest, go for it. Just be warned - the moment you start asking yourself "ok so where is this all going" is the moment when you know the movie is well past its peak".
So glad this is not another mindless teen horror flick!
chiquidracula-264-2040278 July 2020
This film was pretty amazing cautionary tale of messing with the wrong person. I can't believe so many bad reviews? I find that younger viewers don't enjoy horror films that make you feel dread or build dark sense of mood. To do that In a film takes time to get to know characters and developing a story. It's definitely not for anyone with a short attention span that needs a jump scare every 5 mins to keep your attention. I feel films like The Lodge and Midsommar are the new school of horror films that keep you thinking long after the credits roll. It's a style that's definitely not for everyone. In a way these horror films are all grown up and not like anything else out there. It's about time horror went in a new direction.
many virtues
Kirpianuscus21 November 2020
Warning: Spoilers
The basic virtue - it is an authentical psychological horror. The second - it explores the religious aspects in fair manner. It gives , in precise way, the portrait of the pure cruelty of childhood. Not the last, it is just well crafted , fresco of isolation, mute conflicts, revenges, powerful connections with the past and the round architecture of the story. One of the good points - the reference to The Others by Alejandro Amenabar. So, many virtues defining this film .
Cool concept that could have had even more horror potential.
Ben_Schwartz_12 October 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Loved the idea of the entire cult lurking around/inside the cabin, it was a shame that wasn't played with more. The scariest part of this movie was the shot of the snow angles outside the window...gave you chills knowing the true gravity of what they were up against.
Should have ended the movie while she walked over to the car. The dining scene was unnecessary.
Should have ended the movie while she walked over to the car. The dining scene was unnecessary.
Every character was awful
cursealoud5 February 2021
Warning: Spoilers
It was great until the ending. Every character was downright terrible. From the moth committing suicide and not caring about her kids to the annoying little girl who can't stop crying to the father who leaves his children in the care of a woman that has never met them before to the son who orchestrated her undoing. When she walked off into that storm, the son should've revealed the prank at that moment. The daughter kills her dog and then the kids start to play victim. Typical. I didn't like 1 character in the movie and thought everyone should have died
The Lodge
Eric148510 April 2020
The Lodge is a bleak psychological thriller, that explores the emotional and mental impacts resulting from traumatic situations.
Directors/Writers Severin Fiala and Veronika Franz do a terrific job of controlling the tense atmosphere in every scene, never allowing the viewer to get comfortable; it is as if something terrible is lurking within the shadows, just waiting for the perfect moment to reveal itself.
The cinematography of Thimios Bakatakis is absolutely stunning as the setting of the house and snow become characters themselves; with skillfull, claustrophobic shots of the interior, juxtaposed with the spacious snow covered fields, which feel just as restricting as the house. Bakatakis is also the Cinematographer for great films such as The Lobster, Dogtooth, and The Killing of a Sacred Deer.
The acting was solid throughout the cast but I do want to mention the performances of Riley Keough, and Lia McHugh. Riley's performance was impressive and a vital part of the success of the film. Lia's early scene after a traumatic event was memorable and heartbreaking.
Overall, I enjoyed The Lodge and highly recommend it.
Directors/Writers Severin Fiala and Veronika Franz do a terrific job of controlling the tense atmosphere in every scene, never allowing the viewer to get comfortable; it is as if something terrible is lurking within the shadows, just waiting for the perfect moment to reveal itself.
The cinematography of Thimios Bakatakis is absolutely stunning as the setting of the house and snow become characters themselves; with skillfull, claustrophobic shots of the interior, juxtaposed with the spacious snow covered fields, which feel just as restricting as the house. Bakatakis is also the Cinematographer for great films such as The Lobster, Dogtooth, and The Killing of a Sacred Deer.
The acting was solid throughout the cast but I do want to mention the performances of Riley Keough, and Lia McHugh. Riley's performance was impressive and a vital part of the success of the film. Lia's early scene after a traumatic event was memorable and heartbreaking.
Overall, I enjoyed The Lodge and highly recommend it.
A moody but forgettable slow-burn horror
eddie_baggins3 June 2020
Those seeking fast moving and visceral horror experiences should be giving The Lodge a very wide berth, with directors Severin Fiala & Veronika Franz bringing the same slow burning intensity to their Hollywood debut that they established in their festival hit Goodnight Mommy, but The Lodge doesn't make the most of the tools at its disposal as it becomes an unbelievable and meandering affair.
Filled with ample mood and atmosphere, The Lodge has moments of pure dread filled intrigue and suspense but as a cold and depressive pre-Christmas affair between grieving siblings Aiden and Mia and daddie's new one time cult member fiancee Grace takes hold on the film, you begin to quickly grow tired of the cat and mouse games the film and its characters play on us as we sense things are not going to end up with milk and cookies around the open fire.
There's a lot of padding in the film as Richard Armitage's father nicely leaves his children with a damaged, mentally unstable victim of abuse of manipulation to look after them and while the film maintains a level of believability early on, that quickly gives way to a plot that never really gels the way in which it should as motivations, abilities and developments don't always appear to be clearly defined or worked out.
Viewers don't want their horror's believable as such but suspension of belief can only take us so far and the core of The Lodge's conflict's all stem from decisions and happenings that don't sit well, stopping the ability of its three main cast members from ensuring The Lodge becomes the next underground horror hit.
As she's done over the last couple of years, Riley Keough is once more a standout member of an ensemble she is a part of, instilling Grace with a sense of vulnerability, menace and sadness.
Keough's impressive turn deserved a better overall outcome and some of the films best singular scenes stem from her interactions with Jaeden Martell's Aiden and Lia McHugh's dole-loving Mia, with the two not always as innocent as they at times seem.
Final Say -
Filled with moments of promise and some lovingly staged mood pieces, The Lodge has some fine horror stylings to match it with the best but its disappointing narrative and murky character motivations hold it back from its potential, ending up in an unfitting finale that will soon make the film itself forgotten.
2 frozen pooches out of 5
Filled with ample mood and atmosphere, The Lodge has moments of pure dread filled intrigue and suspense but as a cold and depressive pre-Christmas affair between grieving siblings Aiden and Mia and daddie's new one time cult member fiancee Grace takes hold on the film, you begin to quickly grow tired of the cat and mouse games the film and its characters play on us as we sense things are not going to end up with milk and cookies around the open fire.
There's a lot of padding in the film as Richard Armitage's father nicely leaves his children with a damaged, mentally unstable victim of abuse of manipulation to look after them and while the film maintains a level of believability early on, that quickly gives way to a plot that never really gels the way in which it should as motivations, abilities and developments don't always appear to be clearly defined or worked out.
Viewers don't want their horror's believable as such but suspension of belief can only take us so far and the core of The Lodge's conflict's all stem from decisions and happenings that don't sit well, stopping the ability of its three main cast members from ensuring The Lodge becomes the next underground horror hit.
As she's done over the last couple of years, Riley Keough is once more a standout member of an ensemble she is a part of, instilling Grace with a sense of vulnerability, menace and sadness.
Keough's impressive turn deserved a better overall outcome and some of the films best singular scenes stem from her interactions with Jaeden Martell's Aiden and Lia McHugh's dole-loving Mia, with the two not always as innocent as they at times seem.
Final Say -
Filled with moments of promise and some lovingly staged mood pieces, The Lodge has some fine horror stylings to match it with the best but its disappointing narrative and murky character motivations hold it back from its potential, ending up in an unfitting finale that will soon make the film itself forgotten.
2 frozen pooches out of 5
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