Gothika will celebrate it’s sweet sixteen later on this year. Released in 2003 the film stars Halle Berry and Robert Downey Jr. (pre Iron-Man, but still adorable as ever). We recently sat down and revisited this horror/thriller and decided it was time to explain why it continues to be amazing.
For those of you that haven’t seen it, or need a refresher of the plot, the story follows “a brilliant psychiatrist Miranda Grey (Berry) who experiences an unwelcome awakening when she is accused of committing a heinous murder she cannot remember.” (Warner Bros.) When originally released, critics were largely negative. Even now, the film stands at just 14% on Rotten Tomatoes with an audience score of 45%. With critics largely complaining that the film lacked in plot and dialogue. However, this film is a wonderful supernatural thriller that has something for every fan of the horror genre.
A ghost story with a deadly twist
Gothika is a modern ghost story, that combines the different themes of a psychological thriller, murder mystery and revenge stories. While the story is enough to pull you in, the star power in this film brings the material to life. The supporting players are just as interesting as the main protagonists. Penelope Cruz, John Caroll Lynch, and Bernard Hill, all help to bring the tension and creepiness to the haunting imagery.
Most of the film takes place in the mental institution where Berry’s character was a doctor, prior to the horrific murder of her husband. She begins to see apparitions, and seemingly descends deeper into madness. While she struggles to remember the events that landed her in hospital, she uncovers a dark secret.
The film’s cast, along with the story and imagery all marry beautifully into a sophisticated horror movie. There is death, ghosts, crazy women, murder and more. All things that make Gothika one of the best horror movies of the early 2000s. I do have to say that some of the special effects have clearly not aged well, but they are few and far between. All in all, Gothika continues to be a great selection for those who enjoy psychological thrillers.
You can Stream Gothika now on Netflix
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