"Housebound" praised for humor and horror, remains underrated

A 2014 horror-comedy film called "Housebound" is surprising fans with its high Rotten Tomatoes score. Many horror enthusiasts are shocked that it has been a hidden gem in the genre. The movie stars Morgana O'Reilly as Kylie, a young woman placed under house arrest. She returns to her childhood home and suspects it is haunted. The story takes a dark turn when Kylie has a frightening encounter in the basement. She believes a ghost or malevolent presence is living with her, her mother, and her stepfather. As strange events unfold, Kylie and her family try to uncover the secrets of the house's past. Despite its mix of horror and humor, "Housebound" has remained relatively unknown. Critics praise its originality and unpredictability. One viewer described it as "cinematic gold," saying it offers a unique experience that contrasts with many recent predictable films. The director, Gerard Johnstone, described the movie as a "kitchen sink ghost mystery," combining everyday realism with entertaining scares. He insists it’s a fun film that won’t give viewers nightmares. However, reactions are mixed. Some viewers found it scary enough to disrupt their sleep. Others felt the film was cliché or amateurish. Yet, many agree that Morgana O'Reilly’s performance is outstanding. "Housebound" is now available for streaming on BBC iPlayer.