'Keeper' Review: Chilling Cabin Catastrophe with a Twist

Osgood Perkins' Unique Take on Horror

With every release, Osgood Perkins has carved a niche for himself, transforming recognizable horror tropes into experiences that are both familiar and intriguingly bizarre. In 'Keeper', he continues this trend, tackling the cabin-in-the-woods horror with dexterity and flair.

This film doesn't just rely on jump scares or clichés; it dares to play with emotional depth and a narrative that keeps us guessing at every turn. Perkins's disinterest in overt explanations creates a porous boundary between comedy and horror.

A Girl-Powered Narrative

As the film opens, we meet Liz, played masterfully by Tatiana Maslany, and her boyfriend Malcolm (Rossif Sutherland) driving to a remote cabin for what should be a relaxing getaway. However, Liz's initial unease creates a palpable tension that is just the beginning of the film's unique storytelling.

The awkward arrival of Malcolm's obnoxious cousin Darren (Birkett Turton) and his nonchalant date Minka (Eden Weiss) escalates the scenario. As Liz grapples with an unsettling atmosphere, the film cleverly utilizes familiar setups to amplify a sense of dread.

Atmospheric Elements that Ensnare

'Keeper' employs a rich tapestry of visual storytelling, heightened by Jeremy Cox's cinematography. From steam in the bathroom to ghostly fingers drawing hearts on fogged-up windows, each scene is crafted to envelop viewers in an atmosphere thick with foreboding. It's a love story. It's a horror story. And yes, it's a story where the ominous pitfalls of romantic relationships are woven seamlessly into the chilling narrative.

The Climax: A Sour Sweet Ending

The film's deliciously twisted finale doesn't just serve shock value; the abrupt tonal shift manages to capture the essence of Perkins's humor. It's both satisfying and grotesque enough that I found myself reconsidering my future chocolate cake choices. For anyone who has ever been overwhelmed by a seemingly innocuous dessert, you might want to think twice. The culmination of horror amidst humor reveals a nuanced commentary on the complexities of love, trust, and the dangers of casual social encounters.

A Reflection on Horror and Creativity

What Perkins illustrates expertly in 'Keeper' is not merely fear but the digestion of the horror genre itself through a uniquely personalized lens. The film unravels layers of horror while inviting its audience to probe deeper into the reasons behind their fears.

In a cinematic landscape where distinctions between genres are increasingly blurred, Perkins's ability to combine humor with haunting imagery stands out. The result—a film that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining—position 'Keeper' as a noteworthy entry in the contemporary horror scene.

Conclusion

'Keeper' exemplifies what makes Perkins's films compelling while adding a fresh layer to the genre. As it plays with both the absurdity and menace embedded in horror, it invites a re-examination of our expectations, reminding us that true terror often lurks just beneath the surface of familiarity.

For a horror film that balances eerie moments with a sharp sense of humor, read more on The New York Times.