It has been over seven years since the world has seen a directorial feature from horror director Eli Roth… However, in 2015 Roth released TWO, yes TWO, feature length films, “The Green Inferno” and “Knock Knock.” This review is about the later of the two.
“Knock Knock” centers around a devoted husband, Evan Webber, played by Keanu Reeves, who just so happens to be home alone when two beautiful young woman unexpectedly show up on his doorstep. What sounds like a relaxing weekend for Evan, turns into a nightmare pretty quickly. Even though Reeves has some lackluster moments, I will say that pacing is beautiful and not once in the film are you kept waiting. Just 15 minutes into the film and we have already met the two leading ladies.
Of all the modern day directors to use digital cinematography, Roth has somehow mastered it. He uses colors to play off emotion and drive the story forward… The lighting and cinematography in this film are brilliant! A great example of this can be seen when we first meet our main character, the colors are bright and vivid, and the house has a warm, loving feel to it. Yet, after his wife and children leave for the weekend, the colors in the film become contrasted and the family home suddenly feels cold, dark, and wet. Ultimately, this is not a place you want our main character, a devoted, loving husband to be in.
While this was not Reeves’ finest performance, the girls Genesis, played by Lorenza Izzo, and Bel, played by Ana de Armas really brought some charisma, charm, and much needed humor to the film. I look forward to seeing these girls in the future.
Overall it is a great modern day take on a psycho sexual thriller such as “Basic Instinct,” and in true Roth form, there is always a twist at the end!
“Knock Knock” will be released on Blu Ray & DVD on December 8th, 2015.
Currently the film is available for digital download and may be on demand depending on your cable provider.
