'Session 9': A Must-See Cult Film From The 2000s

The early 2000s are particularly rich in nostalgic horror and Brad Anderson's first film in the genre, ‘Session 9’, is a subtly evocative nod to the atmospheric classics that shaped it. The film takes place within the dilapidated walls of Danvers Asylum in Massachusetts, offering a cinematic delight for those who enjoy using their imagination and problem-solving abilities as well as a cerebral approach to delivering frights.

The fact that ‘Session 9’ was filmed at the actual Danvers Asylum, which first opened its doors in the 1870s, adds to the unsettling charm of the film. This decision gives the vérité style of filmmaking used in ‘Session 9’ a disturbing sense of authenticity. Lead actor David Caruso mentioned that they used the facility's existing furniture during filming, saving them from having to change the set.

It's interesting to note that Brad Anderson had only directed romantic comedies before taking on ‘Session 9’. His move into the horror genre revealed his skill at constructing a compelling story while showcasing his ability to work with limited resources. With the genre continuing to do well, Anderson is slated to direct the next Romero-inspired ‘Living Dead’ movie.

Horror fans have rightfully elevated ‘Session 9’ to cult status because of its profound conclusion, which stays with them long after the credits have rolled.

With a relatively small budget, Anderson creates a lot of jump scares in 'Session 9' by evoking a spooky atmosphere and embracing a fascinating obscurity. The movie is influenced by classics such as ‘The Shining’ and Nicholas Roeg's occult thriller ‘Don't Look Now,’ which depict the loss of sanity brought on by extended exposure to a particular environment (in this case, the Danvers hospital instead of the Overlook hotel).

‘Don't Look Now’ is influenced because it also shows a man struggling with the unknown before realizing he's a key player in the mystery that's gradually revealed. 

To build suspense, Anderson skillfully uses sound design to nudge viewers' perceptions and cast doubt on each of the story's main characters. The sound of an old reel turning and old tapes crackling serve as menacing cues, suggesting that something sinister is slowly seeping out of the dusty walls of the gritty, abandoned facility.

With deft use of the traditional unreliable narrator device, Anderson skillfully adds elements of doubt that deceive the audience as the story progresses. The movie skillfully creates a complex web of suspense by using sound and narrative devices to fully submerge viewers in a setting where reality and perception are increasingly fuzzier.

– Farheen Ali