The Invitation

Filmmaker Karyn Kusama uses a confined space to genuinely creepy effect in this slow-burning psychological thriller. The Invitation begins with young couple Will (Logan Marshall-Green) and Kira (Emayatzy Corinealdi) driving to a dinner party at the Hollywood Hills home that Will used to share with his ex-wife Eden (Tammy Blanchard), who is newly remarried to David (Michiel Huisman). Will, Kira, and the remaining guests (some old friends, others strangers) are introduced by their hosts—and a young woman living with them—to a grief-management program called “The Invitation” via a film that shows a woman being euthanized. The death theme escalates as Will is haunted by memories of his young son, who was killed in an accident for which he still blames himself, and another guest admits to being responsible for his wife's death. Gradually, however, Will becomes convinced that Eden, David, and a few others are engaged in some sinister plot. Kusama cleverly ratchets up the suspense, making good use of the isolated locale to incrementally build tension. While the final act is both violent and rather implausible, many viewers will enjoy the clever twist ending. Recommended. (F. Swietek)