Watch After
- 2018
- 10 hr
After is a supernatural horror-thriller movie released in 2017. The main characters in the movie are played by Ruth Reynolds, Josh Evans, and Daniel Jordano. The movie is directed by Ryan Smith, who also co-wrote the script with Jason Parish. The story of the movie revolves around a young woman named Samantha (Ruth Reynolds) who moves into a new apartment with her boyfriend, John (Daniel Jordano). Samantha is an artist who is struggling to find her inspiration and John is a musician who is constantly trying to get his big break. The couple is excited to move into their new apartment, but they soon realize that something is not right.
The apartment building is haunted by the ghosts of its former residents, and Samantha begins to experience terrifying visions and nightmares. John gets caught up in his music and doesn't take Samantha's fears seriously, causing a rift between them. As Samantha's visions become more intense, she begins to uncover the dark secrets of the building and its former tenants.
Eventually, Samantha meets a neighbor named Cassie (played by Gina Destra) who reveals that she has also had supernatural experiences in the building. Together, Samantha and Cassie work to uncover the truth behind the hauntings and find a way to rid the building of its ghosts.
The movie is billed as a horror-thriller, but it also has elements of drama and romance. The central relationship between Samantha and John is a significant part of the film, and their struggles with communication and trust are realistic and relatable. The supernatural elements of the movie are well-executed, with several effective jump scares and moments of tension.
One of the most impressive aspects of the movie is its visual style. Director Ryan Smith makes great use of the apartment building's creepy and claustrophobic atmosphere, and the cinematography is often striking and inventive. The movie also uses a lot of practical effects, which gives it a tactile quality that is missing from many contemporary horror films.
In terms of performances, Ruth Reynolds is the standout. She gives a nuanced and emotional performance as Samantha, and her physicality and facial expressions convey a lot of the character's anxiety and fear. Josh Evans is also solid as John, although his character is not as fleshed out as Samantha's. Gina Destra is excellent in her supporting role, bringing a sense of levity and humor to some of the movie's darker moments.
Overall, After is a well-crafted horror-thriller that is worth watching for fans of the genre. It has strong performances, effective scares, and a thoughtful approach to its subject matter. While it may not be a groundbreaking movie, it is a solid entry into the horror canon that deserves more attention than it received upon its initial release.