Guillermo del Toro’s Gothic supernatural production, Crimson Peak, is a visually striking film that captivates the eye with its polished opulence. It's a bizarre and luscious psycho-sexual thriller, offering an enticing visual experience alongside a peculiar charm and unsettling allure. Del Toro often incorporates unconventional narratives, and while their effectiveness can vary, Crimson Peak stands out as another elegant and flamboyant display of his imaginative filmmaking. It joins del Toro’s previous works, from the beloved Pan's Labyrinth to more uneven efforts like Blade II and Pacific Rim. While aesthetically impressive and suspenseful, Crimson Peak doesn't consistently deliver intense scares or truly memorable chills. Instead, it leans on its Gothic romanticism, which is enough to appreciate this distinctive film with its unique visual style. It’s true that the plot follows predictable paths at times, and perhaps del Toro and co-screenwriter Matthew Robbins could have added more subversive elements to enhance its creepiness. However, one can still enjoy the borrowed Hitchcockian influences, the striking set designs, and the unusual cast. This alone makes Crimson Peak a colorful costume drama brimming with visual flair. The film’s October release should be fitting for Halloween, offering a seasonal atmosphere for those who appreciate macabre stories. The plot might not provide groundbreaking revelations, but its strength lies in the exceptional art direction and production design that defines del Toro's world of nostalgic ghostly phenomena. Crimson Peak won’t soon be considered high-minded horror, but it effectively conveys its lush, Gothic romanticism. The story follows Edith Cushing (Mia Wasikowska), a young American novelist who firmly believes “Ghosts are real!”. This conviction has haunted her since childhood in Buffalo, New York, where she was the only child of wealthy businessman Carter Cushing (Jim Beaver). Naturally protective, Carter is wary of anyone seeking to court his daughter. Enter Sir Thomas Sharpe (Tom Hiddleston), a seemingly impoverished British aristocrat with an agenda: securing financial backing for a mining venture. He begins a relationship with Edith, much to the concern of her father. The skepticism surrounding Sir Thomas grows as Carter witnesses his daughter’s affection for this enigmatic man. Sharpe isn't alone; his sister, Lady Lucille Sharpe (Jessica Chastain), accompanies him on his mission. Cushing now faces trouble from both Sharpes, who have ensnared Edith within their family circle, making her both wife and sister-in-law. This marks a new beginning for Edith in Northern England at the Sharpes’ estate, Allerdale Hall. Allerdale Hall itself is underwhelming, failing to reflect the grandeur expected of an aristocratic home. Edith faces restrictions on where she can go within the dilapidated house and is troubled by recurring ghostly apparitions roaming its halls. Her unease is compounded by Sir Thomas's changing demeanor, leaving her feeling deceived. Edith finds herself caught in a web spun by the Sharpes, grappling with childhood warnings about spirits and the unsettling atmosphere of the decaying mansion. The film’s symbolism effectively creates an atmospheric mood, and the uneven pacing generates moments of genuine tension. However, Crimson Peak occasionally veers into melodrama, undermining its more intriguing aspects. As a romantic thriller, it feels somewhat unbalanced. The love triangle involving Edith, Sir Thomas Sharpe, and Alan McMichael (Charlie Hunnam), Edith’s former suitor, felt rushed. The ghostly figures within Allerdale Hall do create some unsettling moments that align with del Toro's distinctive visual style. Ultimately, the film’s most memorable aspects are the contributions of those responsible for its striking visuals – the art design, sets, cinematography, and costumes. These elements elevate Crimson Peak beyond any shortcomings in manufactured scares. Crimson Peak (2015) Universal Pictures 1 hr. 59 mins. Starring: Mia Wasikowska, Tom Hiddleston, Jessica Chastain, Jim Beaver, Charlie Hunnam Directed and Co-Written by: Guillermo del Toro MPAA Rating: R Genre: Horror and Romance/Supernatural Thriller Critic’s rating ½ stars (out of 4 stars)

Source on TMDB