When Love Meets Fear: A Chilling Weekend Getaway

Liz and Malcolm, a couple navigating their relationship, retreat to Malcolm's family cabin for a weekend getaway. Liz, typically wary of commitment, harbors hope for this one, believing she understands Malcolm well. Their interactions are comfortable yet tinged with awkwardness. Malcolm's slight accent and mention of a creepy cousin nearby add an eerie undertone, but nothing seems immediately alarming.

A Director's Masterstroke

Osgood Perkins, the director, employs clever camera angles to instill unease. Liz and Malcolm's faces are often partially hidden or framed disconcertingly. Liz begins hearing strange noises through the house's vents, feeling as though she's on a bad trip. She calls a friend, who jokes about mushrooms, but Liz remains ambiguous.

A Tale of Suspense and Ambiguity

Keeper, named for Liz's role as the woman in Malcolm's life, keeps viewers guessing. Is it a ghost story, a slasher film, or merely a bad trip? Perkins, known for his varied horror films, makes it hard to tell. The movie prioritizes creating a visceral experience over fitting into a modern relationship parable.

A Relatable Heroine

Tatiana Maslany delivers a direct and relatable performance as Liz. Unlike typical horror heroines who ignore obvious dangers, Maslany's Liz is cynical and irritable in subtle ways, adding depth to her character. The absence of a clear backstory doesn't diminish her completeness.

A Satisfying, Standalone Horror Experience

While Keeper may not be as rich or ambitious as some other horror films, it is satisfying and complete. It doesn't feel like it needs a sequel. The movie's subtle themes about relationships are effective, proving that a simple horror story can say a lot about love and fear.