The Ambitious Atmosphere of “The Woman in the Yard”
In a notable departure from their typical offerings, Blumhouse Productions introduces “The Woman in the Yard,”a horror film that gravitates towards nuanced atmospherics rather than overt scares. This film, characterized by its deliberate pacing and thematic depth, might remind audiences of classic Twilight Zone episodes or even the more expansive storytelling seen in a Jordan Peele film. While it may falter in fully realizing its ambitious concepts, the film deserves recognition for venturing into innovative territory within a genre often criticized for its repetitiveness and exploitation.
Returning to Horror Roots
Under the direction of Jaume Collet-Serra, known for his larger-scale productions like “Jungle Cruise,””Black Adam,”and “Carry-On,””The Woman in the Yard”marks a return to his horror roots, reminiscent of earlier works like “House of Wax”and “Orphan.”Set against the backdrop of an isolated and dilapidated farmhouse—a scene that could have been plucked from an Andrew Wyeth painting—the film follows the troubled family of Ramona, played by Danielle Deadwyler. Ramona is still reeling from a harrowing car accident that claimed her husband, David (Russell Hornsby), whose presence is felt through poignant flashbacks. Their family dynamic is further complicated by their financial struggles, as indicated by Ramona’s use of crutches and the evident state of neglect surrounding their home.
The Mysterious Woman
The tension escalates dramatically when a mysterious woman, portrayed by Okwui Okpokwasili, appears in their yard, dressed entirely in black with a veil obscuring her face. As Ramona instructs her children to stay indoors, she tentatively approaches the enigmatic figure. The woman’s unsettling inquiry, “How did I get here?”soon morphs into a haunting proclamation: “Today’s the day, Ramona. You called and I came.”These words hang heavily throughout the film, enticing viewers to ponder their significance.
Escalating Tensions and Familiar Tropes
Audiences will find that the film’s mounting atmosphere of dread is complemented by a series of strange occurrences, from their family dog’s mysterious disappearance to the unsettling notion that the woman in black is edging closer to their home with every encounter. However, as the narrative progresses, “The Woman in the Yard”begins to dip into established horror clichés, featuring jump scares and frenetic editing that are characteristic of the genre.
A Cut Above the Rest
Nonetheless, these missteps do not diminish the film’s overall quality. Collet-Serra’s direction stays stylish and understated, while cinematographer Pawel Pogorzelski captures visuals that suggest even bright, serene skies can conceal underlying terror. The strong performances elevate this work; Deadwyler’s portrayal as a mother grappling with grief adds unexpected complexity to her character, portraying both love and frustration towards her children. Young actors Peyton Jackson and Estella Kahiha are convincingly genuine in their roles, eschewing the typical irritations often associated with child performers. Okpokwasili’s striking presence ensures her a promising future in the industry.
Cerebral Horror Enthusiasts Rejoice
Some viewers who favor fast-paced narratives may be put off by the slow-burn style of “The Woman in the Yard”and its enigmatic conclusion, which invites various interpretations. However, for fans of cerebral horror, this film provides an engaging experience that rewards thoughtful reflection rather than reliance on gore and shock tactics.