When I first heard about His House, I thought it might be another standard haunted house story with creaky doors and jump scares. What I didn’t expect was a deeply human tale of trauma, loss, and cultural displacement wrapped in a chilling horror narrative. Remi Weekes’ debut feature is more than just a ghost story; it’s a harrowing exploration of the emotional scars left by war and the immigrant experience.
“The past doesn’t just haunt us; it shapes us.”
The Premise
The film follows Bol and Rial, a refugee couple from South Sudan, as they navigate their new lives in a dilapidated house on the outskirts of London. Having escaped the horrors of civil war, they’re granted asylum—but with strings attached. They must adhere to strict rules, including staying in their assigned house, no matter how unsettling its inhabitants become. And unsettling they are. Strange noises, shadowy figures, and haunting visions soon reveal that the ghosts in this house aren’t just supernatural; they’re personal.
What sets His House apart is its ability to weave real-world issues into its horror. Bol and Rial’s struggles with assimilation, guilt, and their shared yet fractured past make the supernatural elements feel grounded and, frankly, more terrifying.
“Survival is just the beginning.”
The Execution
Wunmi Mosaku and Řémi Weekes deliver powerhouse performances as Rial and Bol, respectively. Mosaku’s portrayal of a woman torn between her past and her present is heartbreaking, while Weekes captures the desperation of a man clinging to his vision of a better life. Their chemistry anchors the story, making every haunting feel like an extension of their emotional turmoil.
Director Remi Weekes’ control over tone and atmosphere is masterful. The house itself is a character, its peeling walls and labyrinthine layout reflecting Bol and Rial’s crumbling psyches. The blend of intimate drama and spine-chilling horror keeps you on edge, with each scare feeling earned rather than gratuitous. One standout sequence—involving a sinister figure emerging from the walls—will linger in your mind long after the credits roll.
“You can’t run from your shadows.”
The Horror Elements
His House doesn’t rely on cheap thrills. The ghosts and ghouls are manifestations of Bol and Rial’s guilt, grief, and unresolved trauma. Each apparition carries symbolic weight, forcing the couple—and the audience—to confront the horrors of their past.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is its use of cultural specificity. The mythology and traditions of South Sudanese culture enrich the story, offering a perspective rarely seen in Western horror. These elements aren’t just window dressing; they’re integral to the narrative, making the scares feel unique and deeply personal.
“Healing comes with confrontation.”
Final Thoughts
Is His House flawless? Not quite. The pacing can feel uneven at times, with some emotional beats overshadowed by the film’s more visceral moments. However, these minor issues don’t detract from the overall impact of the story.
This is a film that stays with you, not just because of its scares but because of its heart. It’s a rare horror movie that dares to tackle complex themes without sacrificing its ability to terrify. His House is a triumph of storytelling that deserves a place in the canon of modern horror classics.
Strengths
- Authentic exploration of trauma and cultural displacement
- Stellar performances by Wunmi Mosaku and Sope Dirisu
- Unique blend of psychological and supernatural horror
Weaknesses
- Occasional pacing issues
- Emotional beats sometimes overshadowed by horror elements
Score: A hauntingly human 8.5.
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