Ted Geoghegan’s “Brooklyn 45,” a supernatural period piece, really captured my attention with its intricate and layered storytelling about a disturbing séance in post-World War II America and the unsettling events that follow. This dialogue-heavy supernatural drama explores being haunted by both symbolic and actual ghosts of the past; it has an unpredictable plot and weighty ideas that make it a thriller for those who enjoy something to ponder. The film unfolds entirely within a parlor room on the first floor of a Brooklyn brownstone, taking place on the evening of December 27, 1945. Clive (Larry Fessenden), recently widowed, has invited his closest friends—fellow veterans Archie (Jeremy Holm), Paul (Ezra Buzzington), Marla (Anne Ramsay), and Bob (Ron E. Rains)—over for drinks. Driven by the sorrow of losing his wife, Clive asks them to participate in a spur-of-the-moment séance out of curiosity. They initially hesitate, but eventually agree. What occurs next is a supernatural occurrence that leaves them trapped with no way out, transforms friends into adversaries, and puts the group in a situation where violence might be their only recourse. The script’s concept is quite clever, and the story itself feels fresh and absorbing. The screenplay has an intellectual quality that critiques everything from military matters to religious beliefs, presenting a narrative that turns companions into mortal enemies. The themes are complex and appear deliberately selected to accurately reflect the horrors of war, the trauma experienced by veterans, and the anti-German feelings prevalent at the time. There’s considerable depth in this story about xenophobia, suffering, guilt, and eventual recovery, keeping you engaged from beginning to end. This film would work well as a stage production; because it's confined to one location, its success depends heavily on the strength of the narrative and the actors’ performances. It’s great to see a movie providing substantial roles for an over-50 cast, each actor perfectly embodying their character. The single setting is enriched by excellent production design—the attention to detail in everything from the books on the shelves to the artwork on the walls seems carefully considered to enhance the story. The film's scares come from its talky, psychological horror rather than the usual jump-scares some viewers might anticipate (though there are moments with ghosts and blood, including some impressively gruesome practical effects that genre enthusiasts will appreciate). The unexpected twists really propel the movie forward, so it’s best to go in knowing as little as possible. "Brooklyn 45" brings together a compelling premise, solid acting, and an intellectually stimulating script to create a deeply thoughtful historical thriller.

Source on TMDB