🎬 Brooklyn 45 (2023)
Brooklyn 45 (2023) Movie Review: A Haunting Post-War Séance
Brooklyn 45 (2023) is a period horror film that delves into the psychological aftermath of World War II, blending supernatural elements with a character-driven narrative. Directed by Ted Geoghegan, the film offers a unique setting and storyline that sets it apart from typical horror fare. With its ensemble cast and confined setting, Brooklyn 45 presents a tense and atmospheric exploration of guilt, grief, and the supernatural.
Plot Summary: A Gathering of War-Weary Souls
Set on December 27, 1945, in Brooklyn, New York, the story follows five military veterans who convene in the parlor of their friend Clive Hockstatter’s brownstone. The group includes:
- Clive Hockstatter (Larry Fessenden): A grieving widower struggling with the recent loss of his wife.
- Marla Sheridan (Anne Ramsay): A former interrogator known for her resilience.
- Bob Sheridan (Ron E. Rains): Marla’s husband, a man of quiet demeanor.
- Archibald Stanton (Jeremy Holm): A staunch and disciplined major.
- Paul DiFranco (Ezra Buzzington): A by-the-book officer with unwavering principles.
As the evening unfolds, Clive persuades his friends to participate in an impromptu séance to contact his deceased wife. Skepticism gives way to eerie occurrences, and the group confronts both supernatural phenomena and the haunting memories of their wartime actions.
Character Dynamics and Performances
The film’s strength lies in its character-driven narrative, with each actor delivering compelling performances:
- Larry Fessenden shines as Clive Hockstatter, portraying a man consumed by grief and desperation. His portrayal adds depth to the narrative, making the supernatural elements more impactful.
- Anne Ramsay delivers a standout performance as Marla Sheridan, balancing toughness with vulnerability. Her character’s interrogation skills come into play as tensions rise, and Ramsay navigates this complexity with finesse.
- Jeremy Holm embodies Archibald Stanton with a commanding presence, capturing the internal conflict of a soldier adhering to duty while grappling with moral dilemmas.
- Ezra Buzzington as Paul DiFranco presents a character whose rigid adherence to protocol creates friction within the group, adding to the film’s tension.
The ensemble cast effectively conveys the psychological scars of war, and their interactions drive the narrative forward.
Atmosphere and Setting: A Post-War Brooklyn Enigma
The film’s setting—a single room in a Brooklyn brownstone—creates an intimate and claustrophobic atmosphere. This confined space serves as a pressure cooker for the characters’ emotions and secrets. The production design authentically captures the 1940s era, with period-appropriate costumes and decor enhancing the immersive experience.
The cinematography employs tight framing and dim lighting to accentuate the sense of entrapment and suspense. The use of practical effects and minimal CGI lends a tangible quality to the supernatural elements, grounding the horror in reality.
Themes: Guilt, Grief, and the Supernatural
Brooklyn 45 explores several profound themes:
- Guilt and Redemption: The characters are haunted by their wartime actions, and the séance acts as a catalyst for confronting their past deeds.
- Grief and Loss: Clive’s desperation to contact his deceased wife underscores the human struggle with accepting loss and the lengths one might go to find closure.
- Trust and Betrayal: As secrets are revealed, the bonds of friendship are tested, highlighting the fragile nature of trust among individuals scarred by war.
The film intertwines these themes with its horror elements, creating a narrative that is as emotionally resonant as it is suspenseful.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, Brooklyn 45 garnered generally positive reviews:
- Rotten Tomatoes reports a 90% approval rating, noting that “although its story can feel circuitous and a bit baggy, Brooklyn 45‘s character-driven period horror is elevated by some excellent performances.”
- RogerEbert.com praised the film for its “scare shocks and jolts of terror,” emphasizing its focus on character interactions and psychological horror.
- JoBlo highlighted the film’s stage play-like quality, commending the performances but noting that it “fails to really come together in a satisfying way.”
These reviews underscore the film’s strengths in character development and atmosphere, while also pointing out areas where it may not fully satisfy all viewers.
Conclusion: A Thought-Provoking Chamber Piece
Brooklyn 45 stands out in the horror genre for its unique setting, strong performances, and exploration of complex themes. While it may not cater to fans seeking conventional scares, it offers a rich, character-driven story that delves into the psychological aftermath of war and the supernatural. For viewers interested in period horror that emphasizes atmosphere and character dynamics, Brooklyn 45 is a compelling watch.
Final Rating: 7.5/10
