by Henry Pham
To those who want to watch this movie, please be advised not to take your children (especially your babies) to see this because it is scary and gruesome, and it’s a movie about an exorcism. Originally titled as Winthrop, based on the podcast Knifepoint Horror, Lockbox is an all-new supernatural horror movie that follows a lady named Ellen Hershbergen, who, seeking peace after her mother’s death, retreats to a rural town and takes in her severely traumatized cousin Winthrop Benson. However, their fragile domestic balance shatters when an erratic neighbor warns that Winthrop is dangerous. As strange phenomena escalate, Ellen must put everything on the line to defend Winthrop from a dangerous otherworldly entity determined to track him down.
Carla Gugino (Spy Kids franchise, Netflix’s The Fall of the House of Usher) stars as Ellen, who moves to a small rural town and welcomes her cousin, Winthrop Benson (portrayed by Lou Taylor Pucci), a former soldier, into her home. Although they struggle to get along, Ellen grows increasingly concerned for Winthrop’s well-being and does everything possible to help him confront his inner demons. Ultimately, Winthrop chooses to leave for Ellen’s safety and becomes homeless, despite her efforts to protect him.
Based on a story by Soren Narnia, the film is directed by Daniel Stamm, known for The Last Exorcism (produced by Eli Roth) and Prey for the Devil. Stamm brings his expertise in horror to this project, incorporating impressive exorcism themes reminiscent of his earlier work. Alfonso Chin’s cinematography work and the setting are heavily scenic. However, the film relies too much on its usage of supernatural elements while the pacing is uneven, which nearly reveals the plot too soon. The CGI and uneven script are also the main issues as well. On the upside, Carla Gugino delivers a perfect performance, while Lou Taylor Pucci stands out as Winthrop, a character struggling with PTSD who is accused of murdering Vahna Minter. Katharine Isabelle (Ginger Snaps films) appears as Ellen’s neighbor, Vahna Minter, and gives a not-too-shabby performance despite limited screen time.
While the film relies heavily on the supernatural elements, Carla Gugino’s performance keeps the horror fans locked and loaded in Lockbox. I choose to watch it because I know Gugino is always good in her roles, such as in the Spy Kids franchise, which is fun for kids and teens. Lou Taylor Pucci, who starred in the 2013 remake of Evil Dead, is also outstanding, sharing the screentime with her. He is very condescending to her, and that’s what it comes down to: working on films about exorcism. Though I wasn’t sure I could handle this movie. As you all heard from my previous movie reviews of horror films, they are not my thing. I’m the guy who simply goes along with it without making a decision. But if you like horror movies so much, then you can watch it. It clocks in at 105 minutes long.
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