Written and directed by Max and Sam Eggers, based on the short story of the same name by Susan Hill, The Front Room is a horror film that has loads of atmosphere and weirdness in its setup but never culminates in anything too exciting. The film takes a page from real-life problems but dwells way too much on the ugly side of life without any major payoff. Though the movie has some exciting performances by the cast, the film left me flat and bewildered overall.
Married couple Belinda (Brandy) and Norman (Andrew Burnap) are attempting to start a family of their own when someone from Norman’s past interferes with their marital bliss. While Belinda and Norman expect the birth of their first child, Norman’s estranged father dies. After attending the funeral ceremony for the dad, Belinda and Norman are tasked with caring for Norman’s wife (and stepmother), Solange (Kathryn Hunter). Though Belinda and Norman are atheists, Solange is a devout Christian and someone who demands to reign supreme wherever she dwells. These traits eventually cause problems with the marriage, as Belinda attempts to maintain some semblance of control over her home while Solange opposes Belinda.
The premise of this film is not just great, it’s brimming with potential. Some of the scenarios in the movie work well, because of the uncomfortable and challenging situations people often face when dealing with people in the twilight of their life. However, the movie never fully realizes this potential, failing to culminate in any truly exciting scenarios presented in the film. In addition, the climax of the story is presented rather matter-of-factly, despite the somewhat shocking nature of what actually occurs.
I guess I just wanted something more dynamic and stronger from this movie. The Eggers brothers, along with the performances of the cast do an outstanding job or portraying this uncomfortable situation, but I feel that the low-key approach to the resolution disappoints. The Front Room also has a tendency to overstay its welcome, and overplay the troublesome situations that occur. I feel that this short story would have been told and portrayed in a more impactful way had it been adapted for a short film.