The Haunting of the Queen Mary is out now in theaters. I watched it, and I have some thoughts.
This horror, directed by Gary Shore (Dracula Untold), explores the mysterious and violent events surrounding one family’s voyage on Halloween night in1938 with their story interwoven with the destiny of another family onboard the infamous ocean liner in the present day. The film also integrates the characters of the ship’s crew, both past and present, giving us three stories to follow.
The film required a large cast of characters, and that led to a flaw. We didn’t get to know a lot of the characters intimately, leaving many feeling a bit hollow. The main characters played by Eve (Star Trek Into Darkness, Belgravia), Joel Fry (Cruella, Game of Thrones), and Nell Hudson (Texas Chainsaw Massacre) had their flaws as well. Most of the characters aren’t very likable. They often lack the emotion the story should have required, especially the mother. She’s distant and seems numb. However, one character caught my eye: the ship’s Captain (past), played by Jim Piddock. While the Captain was not a main character, Piddock’s performance was impressive, radiating emotion and panic that were believable.
I was impressed when I learned the movie was filmed aboard the actual Queen Mary in Long Beach, California. The backdrop gives the film a sense of history and authenticity. It is a beautiful old ship. I do wish that more of the ship’s true history would have been highlighted.
If you go into this film wanting to understand every happening at any given moment, you will be disappointed. The story is fragmented and hops back and forth between times and stories. The answers aren’t laid out until the very end, but that could be a good thing. It keeps you interested and trying to unravel the mysteries.
Regarding the movie’s cinematography, I have to say bravo to the director and to the director of photography, Issac Bauman. The film looks great. It’s rich and regal and features creative shots. I will give you a tip. If you watch it, I recommend that you do so in a very dark room. Many scenes are shot in low light, and the ship is filled with shadows, which adds to it.
The special effects, which I believe are mainly practical, are simple but effective. Gorehounds will be pleased.
So, does Haunting of the Queen Mary sink or swim? It floats. It does have its flaws, like any film, but it will keep you on your toes. And while it does have historical aspects, at its core, it is a story about family, obligations, and mental health. Oh, and ghosts, lots of ghosts.
