Taking the Plunge: A Look at “Night Swim”

 

Release date: 5 January 2024 (USA)
Genre: Horror/Fantasy
Director: Bryce McGuire
Cinematographer: Charlie Sarroff
Budget: $15 million USD
Box office: $54 million USD (as of 11 March 2024)

 

5 MIN Read Time

 

“This pool isn’t a problem, Ray. It’s just water. We can deal with water.” – Sarah Walker (played by Anastasia Barzee)

 

Let’s face it, swimming pools can be inherently creepy. That vast expanse of blue water, the distorted view from below the surface—it’s a setting ripe for horror. Director Bryce McGuire takes a dive into this chilling territory with his 2024 film “Night Swim.” While online reviews have been mixed, the film offers a suspenseful, albeit familiar, exploration of suburban nightmares.

 

A Familiar Haunt with a Depth of Emotion

The story centres on the Walker family, who move into a new house with a seemingly idyllic backyard pool. However, the family patriarch, Ray (played by Wyatt Russell), a former baseball player recently forced into retirement due to illness, soon discovers the pool harbors a dark secret. Strange occurrences plague the family, and Ray becomes fixated on uncovering the truth behind the pool’s malevolent force.

The basic premise of a haunted house”—in this case, a haunted pool”—is certainly not new. However, “Night Swim” injects a fresh twist by focusing on a family grappling with loss and the struggle to redefine themselves. Ray’s physical limitations force him to confront his mortality, mirroring the stagnant, murky water he fears. His frustration manifests in an almost obsessive determination to solve the pool’s mystery, creating a simmering tension within the family dynamic. Meanwhile, his wife, Sarah (Anastasia Barzee), and children navigate the emotional turmoil of their new reality. Sarah shoulders the burden of maintaining normalcy, even as the pool’s influence seeps into their lives. Their teenage daughter, Chloe (Olivia DeJonge), grapples with isolation and a burgeoning sense of rebellion, while their younger son, Ben (Ethan Dizon), becomes increasingly withdrawn and fearful.

This exploration of family dynamics elevates “Night Swim” above a simple haunted pool flick. We see the toll the situation takes on each member, adding a layer of emotional depth that resonates with viewers.

 

Filming Under the Surface: Creating a Creepy Atmosphere

While the story takes place in a seemingly ordinary suburban setting, “Night Swim” was reportedly filmed on location in Louisiana throughout the summer months. This choice adds a layer of authenticity to the film’s sweltering atmosphere. The oppressive heat becomes another character, mirroring the suffocating dread that hangs over the Walker family. Director McGuire is known for his meticulous attention to detail, and “Night Swim” is no exception. Cinematographer Charlie Sarroff makes excellent use of light and shadow, creating a sense of unease that permeates every scene, especially those set around the pool at night. The camera lingers on the water’s surface, distorting reflections and hinting at unseen dangers lurking beneath.

 

Familiar Faces, New Chills

Leading the cast is Wyatt Russell, who has quickly become a go-to actor for films that straddle the line between drama and horror. Russell delivers a strong performance as Ray, a man wrestling with his demons both physically and metaphorically. We see the frustration simmering beneath his forced stoicism, and his desperation to protect his family adds a layer of vulnerability to his character. Anastasia Barzee offers a grounded portrayal of Sarah, the family anchor determined to keep them afloat amidst the chaos. She projects a quiet strength that holds the family together, even as she grapples with her own anxieties. The supporting cast includes rising stars like Olivia DeJonge and Ethan Dizon as the Walker children. DeJonge portrays Chloe’s teenage angst with a simmering intensity, while Dizon brings a heartbreaking vulnerability to Ben’s growing fear. Veteran character actress Nancy Lenehan provides some welcome comedic relief as the overly enthusiastic real estate agent who sold the Walkers the house, offering a brief respite from the mounting tension.

 

Box Office Buoyancy (or lack thereof)

“Night Swim” had a modest box office opening, likely due to its January release date, a time when horror films typically don’t fare as well. However, some reviewers have argued that the film deserved a better showing. The online conversation surrounding the film has been lively, with horror enthusiasts praising its atmosphere and suspense, while others found the plot predictable. Regardless, the film has found a second life on streaming platforms, where it continues to generate discussion and find new audiences.

 

Final Verdict: A Dip Worth Taking, With Reservations

“Night Swim” won’t win any awards for originality, but it’s a well-crafted and suspenseful horror film. Strong performances, particularly from Russell and Barzee, and some genuinely creepy visuals elevate the familiar haunted house trope. If you’re looking for a popcorn horror flick with a touch of family drama, “Night Swim” is worth a watch. However, those seeking groundbreaking chills might be left feeling a little dry. The film relies heavily on familiar jump scares and tropes, and the resolution, while satisfying, doesn’t stray far from expectations. Ultimately, “Night Swim” succeeds in creating a suspenseful atmosphere and exploring the complexities of family during a time of crisis. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and take the plunge. Just don’t expect to be completely surprised by what lurks beneath the surface.