I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House (2016) is a haunting, atmospheric supernatural gothic horror film directed and written by Osgood Perkins. Known for its slow-burn pacing, the film captures a sense of eerie suspense and dread as it delves into themes of death, the afterlife, and the mysteries that linger in old houses. With its minimalistic approach and subtle horror elements, the movie offers a chilling psychological journey, making it a unique experience for fans of the genre.

The story follows the protagonist, Lily (played by Ruth Wilson), a young nurse who is assigned to care for an elderly author named Iris Blum (Paula Prentiss). Iris, once a famous author of gothic horror novels, is now bedridden and living in a large, isolated house. Lily’s job is to care for Iris as she slowly declines, but the house itself seems to hold secrets and a dark past. As Lily settles into the house, she begins to feel an unsettling presence, and the boundaries between reality and supernatural events begin to blur.

The atmosphere in I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House is one of its most compelling aspects. The film takes place in an old, decaying house that exudes a palpable sense of isolation. The house feels like a character in itself, with its creaking floorboards, dim lighting, and rooms filled with secrets. The eerie atmosphere is enhanced by the sparse dialogue, the slow pacing, and the lack of jump-scares, which create a sense of growing unease. The house feels oppressive, and as Lily’s sense of reality begins to unravel, the house becomes a reflection of her psychological state.

What makes I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House stand out in the horror genre is its exploration of the supernatural in a subtle, almost poetic way. The horror is not about grotesque creatures or terrifying moments of shock, but rather the slow realization of something darker and more intangible. The ghostly presence in the house is not overtly malevolent; instead, it quietly influences Lily’s psyche, urging her to confront her own fears, regrets, and unresolved emotions. The supernatural elements are woven into the fabric of the story, and the film builds tension through atmosphere rather than conventional horror tropes.

As Lily delves deeper into the history of the house, she learns more about Iris’s past and the mysterious occurrences that have plagued her throughout her life. The connection between Lily and Iris becomes central to the story, with Iris’s novels providing clues to the haunting that surrounds them both. The film explores the relationship between the two women, highlighting themes of loneliness, death, and the passing of time. The gradual revelation of Iris’s life and Lily’s growing fear of the house and its ghostly presence create a compelling emotional depth that enhances the horror of the story.

The film’s minimalistic style can be both its strength and its weakness. The slow pace and limited dialogue may feel frustrating to some viewers, but for others, it is part of the film’s charm. The deliberate pacing builds a creeping tension that culminates in a chilling, unforgettable finale. The ambiguity of the ending leaves room for interpretation, allowing viewers to reflect on the meaning of the events and the significance of the house and its haunting. The film’s understated approach to horror encourages viewers to think deeply about the themes of life, death, and the lingering impact of the past.

In conclusion, I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House (2016) is a unique and atmospheric gothic horror film that will resonate with fans of slow-burn supernatural stories. Its minimalistic approach, combined with its eerie setting and psychological depth, creates a haunting experience that lingers long after the credits roll. While it may not be for everyone, especially those expecting more traditional horror, the film is a testament to Osgood Perkins’s ability to craft a chilling and contemplative narrative. Through its subtle tension and emotional complexity, I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House is an exploration of the ghosts of the past and the shadows they cast on the present.