The Invitation (2015)★ 6.6/10

A chilling study of cult manipulation, it shows how absurd beliefs can still successfully brainwash people. After a slow burn, the violence erupts suddenly, leaving only three survivors out of more than ten, saved largely by the protagonist’s sharp instincts and ability to spot the smallest changes.

The lead’s weary, grief-stricken presence perfectly conveys a father crushed by guilt over losing his son. The long setup offers only brief hints at his backstory, while most of the other characters feel like props. Confined to a single house, the film misses chances to effectively utilise the space to create tension.