What does a physic, a priest, a paranormal enthusiast, a historian and a grieving mother and son have to do to stop the hauntings in a mysterious mansion? That’s what they are about to find out when they all realize they cannot leave after stepping foot inside.
Based on the beloved Disneyland attraction, Haunted Mansion does a great job of fully exploring all aspects of the mansion’s uniqueness, including the demon who seeks to get out if only he could trap a thousand souls inside. All he needs is one more. The film stars a large cast including some very iconic actors, such as Owen Wilson, who is all too familiar with the ‘priestly‘ role. Additionally, Danny Devito, adds humor and wit as he is the last to step foot inside despite everyone telling him know. At 78 he still has what it takes to keep up with the youngest Chase Dillion and his mother (Rent’s Rosario Dawson).
Finally rounding out the cast is Knives Out‘s LaKeith Stanfield as the paranormal enthusiast, who is also mourning the lost of the love of his life. He ventures into the mansion hoping find closure, which of course the ghost all crave his mourning and use that to further fuel their plot.
Lastly, Tiffany Haddish stars along side Jamie Lee Curtis as the two psychics (one of whom is trapped in a ball) who will help the team finally de-ghost this haunted mansion.
All in all, at just over 2 hour runtime, Haunted Mansion is far different than the original, starring Eddie Murphy which came out twenty years ago. It sticks more closely to the true story behind the mansion and takes its own unique twist on the beloved tale. So to speak, it de “Murphy’s” this tale in a way that there is far less stupid comedy and more wholehearted family fun. There is also a few jump scares, but they are done with a family friendly audience to consider.
The film came out in theaters July 28th and is currently playing in one near you.