You’re in for a treat if you enjoy blurry movies, strange synths, and the creepy dread of antique despair. Although many contemporary films attempt to capture the ’80s slasher look, few actually do so. But The House of the Devil is the real deal, not just a dress-up version of the movie. It seems like you’ve found a filthy VHS tape from a long-abandoned movie store right away, and things just get better once more.

This independent gem, which was directed by Ti West, doesn’t depend on low jump scares or bright effects. Rather, it leans into stress, atmosphere, and the uneasy feeling of slow motion that characterizes the best of vintage horror. You can supply it for completely right now on &nbsp, Tubi as a love letter to the type that understands what made it so terrible in the first place. This is a must-see if you’re looking for something dramatic, sophisticated, and infused with vintage vibes.

Samantha ( Jocelin Donahue ), a college student in need of money, accepts a babysitting job in an ominous old mansion. When she arrives at the location, she quickly realizes that she is dealing with a little different fee. As she is left alone for the evening, she orders a pie and starts a TV movie, where the horror gradually builds and the market settles in for a horrifying experience. The House of the Devil has been increased tenfold in comparison to traditional movies like Halloween and When a Stranger Calls.

The House of the Devil immediately establishes a very exact and detailed retro aesthetic from the beginning of the film. It is based on the 1980s, not just the 1980s; it is still there. The film’s thick appearance, vintage-appropriate costumes, and tresses are all absolutely perfect. The Fixx’s One Point Leads To Another and The Greg Kihn Band’s The Crack Up Song are among the lines on the customized music. The film feels like it was born from that time rather than just dressing up in 80s themes.

The movie was shot on 16mm video, giving it a distinctive throwback feel. It uses a variety of different techniques to elicit classics from the era, including cinematography directly from the 1980s filmmakers. Everything is period appropriate down to the credits, and I appreciated the care that was paid to making sure everything corresponded, even the early scenes of the movie.

When Sam discovers evidence that the home she worked for isn’t the same as the one in the photos, she realizes something is wrong. She makes an attempt to dial 911 after realizing she may have been defrauded, but she has already consumed a piece of pie. She passes away only as she begins to understand why she has been hired to “babysit” her.

The film’s plot is full of grisly scenes ( just ask Sam’s best friend Megan, who was portrayed by Barbie director Greta Gerwig ), as well as shockingly gruesome practical effects that make you feel uneasy and chill to the core. An example of 1980s filmmaking that would have made people ill to their stomach is the terrible” Mother,” which Sam sees is connected to her original work.

The House of the Devil maintains a biting, threatening sense of dread throughout its execution without spoiling the finale. I enjoyed using loneliness, the unknown, and treachery themes on my first viewing, which I just grew to love more with each rewatch because it isn’t afraid to make them feel more intoxicated. Despite the tragic nature of the story, I have a strong belief that this film wouldn’t have been possible without its commitment to the period that served as its inspiration. &nbsp,

The House of the Devil is one of the best movies you could add to your list of Halloween favorites if you’re looking for a horror film that doesn’t depend on affordable jump scares or the exaggerated story” sex is bad” where a group of teenagers are randomly picked off. It vividly brings the illogical, depressing years of 1980s dread to life in credible, decadent ways that will have you squirming in your seat. The gagworthy climax is also unpacked, and I bet you will too.