Ghostland: A Brutal and Dynamic Slasher with Paranormal Twists
A chilling tale unfolds as a family is terrorized by two deranged maniacs in Pascal Laugier’s “Ghostland,” a film that blends slasher horror with unsettling paranormal elements.
Colleen (Mylène Farmer), a single mother, inherits a secluded house from a deceased relative and moves in with her teenage daughters, Beth (Emilia Jones) and Vera (Taylor Hickson). The house is filled with the deceased relative’s extensive doll collection. On their first night, their new home becomes a battleground as two sadistic intruders launch a violent attack. The three women barely manage to survive.
Years later, Beth (Crystal Reed) has channeled her trauma into a successful career as a horror novelist. Vera (Anastasia Phillips), however, remains deeply scarred, trapped in a cycle of reliving the horrific night. Colleen dedicates herself to caring for Vera, hoping for a breakthrough. When Beth returns home to support her mother, she is plagued by disturbing visions, realizing that the nightmare is far from over.
Fun Fact: In 2015, director Pascal Laugier directed Mylène Farmer’s music video for “City of Love.”
Pascal Laugier’s Return to Horror
Pascal Laugier, the French director known for the controversial and brutal horror film “Martyrs” (2008), returns with “Ghostland.” While not as overtly gory or pretentious as “Martyrs,” “Ghostland” still caters to audiences who appreciate suspense and the vulnerability of its female characters.
Did you know? Pascal Laugier was once involved in a “Hellraiser” remake, but his vision didn’t align with the producers’ expectations.
A Blend of Horror Subgenres
“Ghostland” straddles two distinct horror subgenres. It’s an atmospheric, supernatural horror film that relies on jump scares, eerie visions, and a collection of terrifying dolls to create suspense. It’s also a slasher film about women fighting back against relentless, monstrous killers. Unlike films that attempt to humanize their villains, “Ghostland” portrays its maniacs as near-mute, inhuman figures. There is no reasoning with them, only resistance.
The film’s script is more intricate than it initially appears. “Ghostland” even touches on philosophical themes, though these may only be apparent to those who can look for metaphors and allegories amidst the on-screen suffering. Mylène Farmer, a French pop icon, is used effectively as an actress, bringing a mature and compelling presence to the film.
Intense and Relentless
Clocking in at ninety minutes, “Ghostland” is a relentless experience. The film maintains a high level of emotional intensity, akin to a pressure cooker. While not excessively gory by torture-horror standards, it still delivers a visceral and disturbing experience.
While “Ghostland” is undeniably derivative, it embraces its influences. There’s a certain enjoyment in recognizing the homages and appreciating how Laugier plays with genre tropes. Overall, the film is a strong, albeit flawed, entry into the horror genre.