Even though it was released about ten years ago, The Cabin in the Woods is still quite a good option for anyone looking for a horror movie to enjoy today. This movie was directed by Drew Goddard and produced by Joss Whedon. The script was written collaboratively by both Whedon and Goddard. The Cabin in the Woods is an ideal choice for fans of parody, mystery, and psychological horror movies. It will appeal to fans of movies like Scary Movie or The Truman Show. It is cheekily written and features an engaging plot line. There are plenty light hearted moments and jokes scattered throughout the film as well. This ensures that it will be appealing to a variety of audiences. It also makes The Cabin in the Woods a more unique choice for your next horror movie film night.
Hardcore horror movie fans will not find this movie to be genuinely terrifying by any means. It does not begin with suspenseful lingering music, terrifying jump scares, or gory, violent episodes. In this same vein, it does not employ as many serious or typical horror conventions as other similar films. This is why The Cabin in the Woods is best understood with the consideration of films like Scary Movie or The Truman Show and not when compared to classic horror like Friday the 13th or The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.
The plot, however, does provide plenty of brain bendingstwists, turns, and surprises, that are sure to engage viewers and keep them on the edge of their seats while watching. The cast consists of mid range celebrities who would all be considered young and highly conventionally attractive. This aesthetic element plays into the plot line of the film. Cliches and stereotypes are used to make a point and to toy with the idea of traditional plot structure.
This movie is rated R and generally I would consider it to be generally suitable for anyone age thirteen or older. There is some adult humor to be aware of but this is not the type of movie that will cause severe nightmares for most people. For this reason it is also a crowd pleasing choice for mixed crowds, halloween parties, or date nights.
The film begins with five young adults who have decided to spend some time together bonding in a cabin. Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth, Anna Hutchison, Fran Kranz, Jesse Williams play the lead roles, portraying five typical (almost stereotypical) characters that are commonly seen in teen horror. These roles include the self centered, sexually appealing cheerleader type, the skeptical and silly stoner type, the jock, and others. Soon, these five friends begin to question their surroundings and come to realize that the cabin they have decided to call home for the weekend is not so homey at all.
While the group of friends starts to question their surroundings in the isolated cabin, two scientists, played by Richard Jenkins and Bradley Whitford, are busy in their own facility. There, they and their questionable colleagues have the devious job of manipulating the conditions of reality itself. Unaware at first of what exactly is going on above their heads, the group of young people attempts to escape danger, understand their surroundings, and break free of their inevitable doom.
What exactly makes this camping trip so terrifying? Is anyone able to escape or does the film end in peril? And what exactly are those maniacal scientists up to? These questions and more will be answered by watching The Cabin in the Woods. Find the movie on DVD or bluray for purchase or rent it online next time you are looking for some spooky entertainment. You are sure to enjoy.
