The Uninvited (2023): A 90s Indie Horror Vibe Review

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Post on May 13, 2025

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The Uninvited (2023): A Nostalgic Trip Through 90s Indie Horror?

The year is 2023, yet a film has emerged that whispers of a bygone era: the glorious, gritty, and often gloriously goofy world of 90s indie horror. The Uninvited isn't a perfect recreation, but its deliberate channeling of that aesthetic is a breath of fresh air in a landscape often dominated by CGI-heavy spectacles. Does it succeed in capturing the magic, or does it fall flat in its attempt at retro horror? Let's dive in.

A Familiar Feeling: Nostalgia Done Right (Mostly)

From the grainy film stock to the practical effects (yes, you read that right!), The Uninvited leans heavily into the visual language of 90s horror flicks. Think less Scream and more The Blair Witch Project meets early Ringu – a raw, unsettling atmosphere built less on jump scares and more on creeping dread and unsettling imagery. This commitment to a specific aesthetic is undeniably its strongest point. The filmmakers clearly understand the era they’re emulating, avoiding mere pastiche and instead capturing the essence of that unique filmmaking style.

The Story: Familiar Tropes with a Fresh Coat of Paint?

The plot centers around a group of friends who stumble upon a secluded cabin during a weekend getaway. Sounds familiar, right? While the basic premise treads familiar ground, the execution offers enough twists and turns to keep viewers engaged. The characters, though archetypal, are well-developed enough to avoid becoming entirely one-dimensional. Their individual struggles and relationships add depth to the narrative, grounding the supernatural elements in a relatable human drama.

What Works:

• Authentic 90s Vibe: The film truly excels in its visual and auditory recreation of the 90s indie horror aesthetic. This extends beyond simple visual cues, immersing the viewer in the specific feel of the era.
• Effective Atmosphere Building: Suspense is built masterfully, relying on mood and atmosphere rather than cheap jump scares. The sound design, in particular, adds significantly to the film’s overall unnerving effect.
• Strong Performances: The cast delivers convincing performances, adding to the film's believability, even amidst the supernatural events.

What Could Be Improved:

• Pacing Issues: While the slow burn works for establishing atmosphere, the pacing occasionally lags, particularly in the middle act.
• Predictable Plot Points: Some of the plot twists might be predictable for seasoned horror fans.

Overall Verdict: A Worthy Watch for Indie Horror Enthusiasts

The Uninvited (2023) isn't a perfect film, but it's a commendable effort in capturing the spirit of 90s indie horror. Its strengths lie in its authentic atmosphere, strong performances, and clever use of practical effects. While pacing issues and predictable plot points hold it back from true greatness, its nostalgic charm and dedication to its aesthetic make it a worthwhile watch for anyone who appreciates the grittier side of the horror genre. Fans of films like The Blair Witch Project, The Evil Dead, and Session 9 will find much to appreciate here. If you're craving a throwback to a simpler, more atmospheric era of horror filmmaking, The Uninvited might just be the perfect film for you.

Keywords: The Uninvited, 2023 movie review, indie horror, 90s horror, horror movie review, practical effects, nostalgia, atmospheric horror, scary movies, film review, movie review 2023.