Review of The Innkeepers (2011) by Dimitry V — 21 Sep 2014

I have conflicting feelings about this film.

I dislike how this movie never really seems to lift off, and I say that as someone who prefers slow-burn movies over rushed blitzkrieg action. On the other hand, I really admire its subtlety and cleverness.

I think the problem is that it's TOO subtle in presenting its story beats, at least while watching the film. The ending shot gives you an important plot point, but I didn't even see it (literally see it with my eyes) at first. I had to read about it afterwards and even then I could (barely) see it. This is the most prominent example, but the significance of many events in the movie is presented too subtly to even pick up on it.

The real understanding of the significance of the story beats comes after the film is finished, when you start thinking about it. This leaves you with a thinking man's film you will remember because of its cleverness, without having really enjoyed the ride itself because of its emotional flatness. Not even Sara Paxton's extremely likeable 'girl next door' character could save the film from its dullness, in my opinion.

However, I admit this is a matter of taste. If you're the type who enjoys movies most on an analytical level, you may like The Innkeepers way more than me. If you're the type who rather looks for an emotional cinematic experience, you may not get your fix here.

6/10 for me.