'The Inheritance' Review: A Mixed Bag of Family Drama and Horror

'The Inheritance' (2024) introduces viewers to the affluent Abernathy family, a group whose bonds are tested when 75-year-old Charles Abernathy invites them to his grand mansion for a birthday celebration. The occasion, however, is not just about cake and presents. Charles reveals a dramatic twist: he is willing to put his entire estate on the line, with the caveat that if he dies during the night, all of his wealth will be donated. The suspense is palpable, as it becomes clear that someone in the family may be planning his demise.

For those expecting a film akin to Knives Out, it’s best to temper those assumptions. 'The Inheritance' steers away from mere mystery and plunges into a blend of horror and suspense reminiscent of 'Ready or Not' and 'The Fall of the House of Usher,' with a hint of 'The Haunting of Hill House.'

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The film features a cast of characters that feels strikingly familiar: Drew (Austin Stowell), who has distanced himself from the family; the money-obsessed twins Madeline and CJ (Rachel Nichols and David Walton); and Cami (Peyton List), who is more interested in her social media presence than her family's troubles. Drew's wife, Hannah (Briana Middleton), serves as an outsider and audience surrogate.

While the initial setup of the film is engaging and intriguing, promising infighting, betrayal, and deceit, the transition from mystery to horror is where the film falters. The characters are broadly drawn, and the acting lacks depth, resulting in a less impactful experience than one might hope for. The familial tensions, while promising, are not fully explored, leaving the audience with a sense of missed opportunity.

Visually, the film does offer some notable elements. The Victorian mansion is portrayed with an impressive sense of opulence, contributing to the eerie atmosphere. Cinematographer Vincent De Paula excels in capturing the mansion’s grandeur and subtle unease, though some of the horror moments fail to land as effectively as intended.

Director Alejandro Brugués demonstrates capability, yet the weak script undermines his efforts. The narrative's ambition is evident, but without strong character development and a cohesive script, the film struggles to deliver a compelling story. Despite some notable performances from Briana Middleton and Peyton List, the rest of the cast falls into predictable archetypes, diminishing their impact.