100 Movie Challenge 2014 - # 141: The Guest

Director: Adam Wingard

Genre: Thriller

Runtime: 92 minutes

Year: 2014

Starring: Dan Stevens, Maika Monroe, Sheila Kelley, Leland Orser, Brendan Meyer, Lance Reddick

Description: A soldier (Dan Stevens) introduces himself to the Peterson family, claiming to be a friend of their son who died in action. After the young man is welcomed into their home, a series of accidental deaths seem to be connected to his presence.

Review: I always find it very exciting to not know much about a movie before watching it. That’s how I went into watching “The Guest”. The movie starts with a soldier on family Peterson’s doorstep. He, David, tells the mother he knew her son who died in action. She invites him in and the family lets him stay for a little while longer. He seems like a nice man, but strange things start happening around town.

“The Guest” is a very strong action thriller. It’s daring and hearkens back to the same kind of movies from the 80's with its own modern touches. The soundtrack is amazing, it reminded me of “Drive”. And some of the music is also very similar to the ones John Carpenter used in his films.

Dan Stevens, who plays David, is the glue that binds this movie together. He exides vulnerability and charm that you just can’t help but like the guy and yet he still stains some sinister vibes underneath that smiling exterior. He knocks it out of the park. Also Maika Monroe turns in a strong performance.

This movie has great thriller elements, especially the last 30 minutes are worth watching. There is an amazing scene in a haunted house.

Like I said before, it’s always nice to start your movie experience before actually knowing anything about the movie, especially when it’s such a pleasant surprise. “The Guest” is a very good thriller. I’m afraid not many people will see it, which is a shame.

Rating: 5/ 5