Insidious: The Red Door (2023) Review

Insidious: The Red Door marks the fifth installment in the long-running Insidious franchise, a series that has taken audiences on a roller-coaster ride through the realms of supernatural horror since its inception in 2010. Directed by franchise stalwart Patrick Wilson, who also makes his directorial debut here, the film aims to tie up loose ends and provide a satisfying conclusion to the story that began with Insidious over a decade ago.

The movie follows the Lambert family, picking up nine years after the events of Insidious: Chapter 2. Josh Lambert (Patrick Wilson) is haunted by memories he can’t fully recall, and his relationship with his son Dalton (Ty Simpkins) is strained. As Dalton heads off to college and starts delving into his own artistic abilities, he unwittingly reopens a door to the terrifying supernatural realm known as “The Further.” What follows is a journey through dark memories, familial bonds, and the lingering specters that threaten to tear them apart.

The Red Door returns to the franchise’s roots, exploring the themes of suppressed grief and the impact of traumatic experiences on individuals and families. The film aims to delve into the psychological toll of facing one’s demons head-on, using the supernatural as a metaphor for the struggles we all face within ourselves. The narrative, as ever, unfolds through a series of eerie and suspenseful moments, with director Patrick Wilson’s vision bringing a consistent tone of gloom and unease.

The performances in the film are solid, with Wilson reprising his role as Josh Lambert with effortless skill, offering a mix of vulnerability and determination. Simpkins delivers a brooding portrayal of Dalton, capturing the internal turmoil that drives the character’s actions. Newcomer Sinclair Daniel shines as Chris, Dalton’s college friend, providing a refreshing and grounded presence amidst the supernatural chaos. The film also features returning familiar faces like Rose Byrne, Lin Shaye, and Leigh Whannell, adding a sense of continuity to the series.

While The Red Door succeeds in rekindling the eerie atmosphere of the earlier entries, it also falls into some familiar horror tropes. Jump scares, mysterious apparitions, and moments of tension punctuate the narrative, but at times, they feel predictable and less effective due to their familiarity. The plot occasionally becomes convoluted, with a labyrinthine structure of loose ends that can be overwhelming.

Despite these shortcomings, the film manages to evoke a sense of closure for the Lambert family and their journey through the supernatural. The themes of memory, trauma, and reconciliation remain strong undercurrents, giving emotional weight to the otherwise standard horror fare. Patrick Wilson’s directorial debut demonstrates his understanding of the franchise’s core elements, even if the execution falters at times.

Insidious: The Red Door stands as a worthy finale to the Insidious saga, delivering a blend of spooky moments and emotional resolution. While it may not revolutionise the series, it offers a satisfying chapter for those invested in the Lambert family’s plight. For fans of the franchise, it’s a fitting goodbye, while newcomers might find themselves intrigued by the eerie world that Insidious has built over the years.

Movie Rating:

Insidious: The Red Door trailer: