Crimson Peak is a dark and disturbing romantic horror unravelling some terrible secrets and sins.
An aspiring author is swept to a haunted house, Crimson Peak, when she rejects the love of her childhood friend and marries a charming stranger. The mysterious house creaks, creeps and bleeds while she fights ghosts from her past. To survive she must explore the horrible secrets of Crimson Peak.
The film is beautifully scripted, the story swinging between love and lies, mystery and insanity. It is more violent than scary and has a horror element added to it rather than the haunting being the main focus of the story. The film is not perfect and is quite predictable but it is visually splendid and the story is told well.
The film has a very smart cast. Tom Hiddleston plays the seductive husband, Thomas Sharpe and once again he captures the audience with his stunning expressions and acting. The role of his innocent author wife, Edith, is played by Mia Wasikowska and Jessica Chastain is cast a Thomas's sister.
Crimson Peak is the brainchild of Guillermo del Toro. The story takes place in the 19th century and the sets and costumes are very elegant and stylish. Toro gives a remarkable description of the psyche of the characters and their crimes.
It wouldn't be the worst thing to wait until the DVD release to watch this film. However, it can be an ideal choice for an audience with a taste for victorian views and a mild fright.
Rating - 3 and half stars
Director - Guillermo del Toro
Starring - Tom Hiddleston, Mia Wasikowska, Jessica Chastain, Charlie Hunnam