The Guest: A Stylish Thriller with a Familiar Core
A tragedy befalls the Peterson family when their eldest son, serving in the military, is reported dead. Shortly after the funeral, a charismatic stranger named David (Dan Stevens) arrives at their doorstep. He claims to be a fellow soldier and friend of their son, bearing a final message. The Petersons, grieving and vulnerable, invite David to stay with them. He quickly endears himself to each family member, but is he truly who he claims to be?
Adam Wingard, a prominent figure among the “new wave” of young thriller-horror directors (those involved in the “V/H/S” and “The ABCs of Death” anthology series), has garnered significant attention and success. While some of his earlier works earned praise within genre circles, it was the release of the slasher film “You’re Next” that truly solidified his reputation. Despite a fairly standard plot with a couple of twists (a necessity in the post-“Scream” slasher landscape), its vibrant visual style and dark humor resonated with audiences.
“The Guest” builds upon this foundation, showcasing Wingard’s continued growth in terms of stylistic execution. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the script itself doesn’t break new ground. It’s a familiar tale, reminiscent of “The Stepfather” and “The Hand That Rocks the Cradle,” a thriller about a wolf in sheep’s clothing who disrupts the lives of ordinary people. While the film touches upon themes of complacency and the fragility of the “middle class” ideal, the script occasionally feels underdeveloped, with plot holes and characters making questionable decisions.
This is forgivable, as Wingard prioritizes style, which is so rich and captivating that it overshadows any narrative shortcomings. The film is a brilliant exercise in postmodernism, drawing heavily from various aspects of pop culture. The synth-heavy soundtrack evokes “Maniac” and “Drive,” while the hyper-realistic violence and dynamic camera work are reminiscent of “The Raid” (Wingard collaborated with Gareth Evans, the director of “The Raid,” on “V/H/S/2”). The film is filled with references to the mainstream cinema of the 80s and 90s. Wingard doesn’t reinvent cinematic language in “The Guest,” but rather creates a mixtape of stylish influences, much like the one David receives from the Peterson’s daughter.
Dan Stevens’ Standout Performance
Another key element of the film’s success is Dan Stevens, the British actor previously known for his role in the period drama “Downton Abbey.” Stevens embodies the character of David perfectly. He’s fit, charming, and polite, with a smile that shifts between genuine warmth and a menacing smirk. Stevens’ charisma extends beyond the Peterson family, captivating the audience as well. Even when David reveals his dark side, you might find yourself rooting for him over the special forces sent to neutralize him. David is a blend of Jason Bourne and the T-1000, an anti-hero with more charisma than all the other characters combined. He’s a compelling figure, leaving the door open for a potential franchise should Wingard choose to pursue it. And, frankly, many would welcome such a development.