The Sideways Light (2014), directed by Jennifer Harlow, is an atmospheric supernatural thriller that weaves a chilling tale of mystery and the paranormal. Starring Lindsay Burdge as a woman entangled in the eerie secrets of a historic mansion, this indie horror film explores themes of legacy, memory, and the haunting nature of time. With its slow-burn tension and evocative storytelling, The Sideways Light offers a unique experience for fans of psychological horror and ghost stories. In this movie review, we delve into the film’s strengths, weaknesses, and why it’s a hidden gem in the horror genre.
Addressing the 2022 Confusion
Your query mentions The Sideways Light (2022), but based on available information, the film was released in 2014, with its premiere at the Austin Film Festival on October 25, 2014, and a limited theatrical and VOD release in 2015. No evidence suggests a 2022 re-release or remake, so this review focuses on the 2014 film, aligning with the provided plot details.
Plot Overview: Unraveling a Mansion’s Dark Secrets
The Sideways Light follows Beth (Lindsay Burdge), a woman caring for her ailing mother in a historic mansion with a troubling past. When Beth discovers an old journal, she becomes obsessed with uncovering the tragic events that once unfolded within the mansion’s walls. As she digs deeper, the lines between the living and the dead blur, plunging Beth into a chilling mystery that threatens her sanity and safety. The film’s slow-burn narrative builds a creeping sense of dread, revealing the mansion’s dark secrets through haunting visions and unsettling discoveries.
The story explores legacy and memory, examining how the past lingers in the present. With its focus on supernatural elements and psychological tension, The Sideways Light delivers a haunting experience that keeps viewers guessing until its poignant conclusion.
Strengths: What Makes The Sideways Light Stand Out
Atmospheric Tension and Cinematography
The Sideways Light excels at creating a creeping sense of dread, using its historic mansion setting to craft an eerie atmosphere. The cinematography, with its muted tones and shadowy interiors, enhances the film’s supernatural vibe, making the mansion feel like a character in itself. Reviewers have praised the “moody, evocative visuals” that draw viewers into Beth’s unraveling world, perfect for fans of atmospheric horror.
Lindsay Burdge’s Compelling Performance
Lindsay Burdge delivers a powerful performance as Beth, capturing her descent from curiosity to obsession with nuance and intensity. Her portrayal of a woman grappling with grief, fear, and the paranormal anchors the film, making Beth a relatable and sympathetic protagonist. Critics have lauded Burdge’s ability to convey “palpable emotional weight,” elevating the indie horror narrative.
