Emelie (2016)
Written By: FZ
Edited By: Grave Reviews Staff
Film Information
Director: Michael Thelin
Producer: Andrew Corkin
Screenwriters: Richard Raymond, Harry Herbeck
Release Date: March 4, 2016
Cast:
Sarah Bolger as Emelie
Robert Bozek as Skinny Man
Joshua Rush as Jacob Thompson
Carly Adams as Sally Thompson
Thomas Bair as Christopher Thompson
Susan Pourfar as Joyce Thompson
Chris Beetem as Dan Thompson
Elizabeth Jayne as Maggie
Rating = 3/5 Graves
***May contain some spoilers***
Synopsis
Emelie (2016) follows a husband and wife who are planning to celebrate their anniversary. In order to celebrate, they need someone to watch their children so they hire a replacement babysitter for a few hours because their prior babysitter was not available.However, they do not know who the babysitter will be. When the replacement babysitter by the name of Emelie arrives, she is given instructions after which the parents leave the home. However, unbeknownst to the couple, Emelie has a darker secret and has a mean streak. The kids must survive the night with their new babysitter which turns from fun to terrifying.
Gore Factor
The movie contains a few gory scenes. In one scene, a hamster is being fed to a python which may disturb some viewers. However, one notable scene is when the children are forced to watch a videotape of sex acts. The atmosphere is menacing as the babysitter torments the kids constantly.
The Grave Review
The plot of Emelie (2016) was by no means original and took the shape similar to any other babysitter gone wrong type film. However, the execution of the premise was well done. In addition, the film kept the tension going from the start of the film to the end. The story focuses not only on the horrific acts that Emelie makes the children do but also why she is possibly doing it. Further, the performances of both Emelie (Sarah Bolger) and the children were well-done. Bolger’s character created an exciting character that initially showed innocence and transformed into an emotionally unstable, psychotic young girl.
What the filmmakers succeed at doing is creating a plot in which viewers may feel related to (i.e. hiring someone who attacks your children). Too many times, there are horror stories where help is hired or children are placed at a daycare and something horrible happens. The concept is disturbing and does happen in real life. The thought alone would give any parent anxiety. The message may be not to trust anyone and always keep your children close. The film is not overly gory but conceptually disturbing. Emelie (2016) is a good example at how one can instill fear without the need for gore or overly graphic scenes.
Taking all aspects into consideration, Emelie (2016) is twisted and watchable. The film is not by any means original, but it succeeds in entertaining the audience.
For the foregoing reasons, Grave Reviews give Emelie (2016) three graves out of five graves.
Do you agree with our review? Comment below.
Join the Conversation