asmithee23

Robert Eggers' films have never thrilled me but this had such good reviews, I thought it was was worth seeing in the theater. While it was more interesting than his other movies, it still has moments that are like watching paint dry. The acting is fine, the costumes amazing and enough can't be said about how fully committed Lily-Rose Depp is to her performance. She carries this film. I know the lack of color is to help set the mood but when Depp's Helen wears a vibrant blue dress, it stands out in an odd way. Everything is exceedingly drab. In my unqualified opinion, this is one to wait for streaming.

Admittedly, it starts off on a cheesy comedic tone but when it settles in, it's a wonderful story that isn't just the romance but about that, the working class and the power dynamic of bosses and companies with their employees, friendships, healing and growth. The relationship between Won and Sa-rang is 100% believable and we see how Won becomes smitten with one of best people on the planet. There are also compelling and interesting stories involving the leads' friends that could have had their own show, they are that solid. I have watched a lot of Korean entertainment lately and this is one of the best. Lee Jun-ho is a phenomenal leading man, walking that walk of a confident man. I dare say, he might be a better leading man than fellow 2pm member Taecyeon. Sorry, Taec.

It's nothing special but it's not terrible, either. It has some chuckles, some outright laughs but nothing that really makes you bust out or tears run down your cheeks. There was one line that made me crack up. The acting is professional with Stanfield nailing the leading man part well. His backstory was quite moving. It's predictable with one plot twist easily figured out so it really isn't surprising when it's revealed. The special effects were good, thank goodness because with an average script, they needed to be. I suspect as the years go by, The Haunted Mansion will build a following much like Hocus Pocus did. It's definitely better than the Murphy version, in my opinion. A good one for Halloween viewing.