Haunted Mansion (2023) — Movie Review

Over the years, Disney's iconic Haunted Mansion has traversed various creative mediums. From its original incarnation as a classic theme park attraction to now, the big screen. Now, with its third movie adaptation, Disney hopes to enchant both new and returning fans. It follows in the footsteps of the 2003 Eddie Murphy-driven narrative and the quirkily delightful 2021 Muppets rendition. Director Justin Simien, famed for hits like "Dear White People" and "Bad Hair," helms this fresh, Black-led live-action tale.

At its heart, the storyline is elegantly simple, designed to appeal to a broad audience. Rosario Dawson brings to life the character of Gabbie, a resilient single mother. Alongside her young, wide-eyed son Travis, played with enthusiasm by Chase Dillon, she relocates to a charmingly antique house. Yet, the dream quickly morphs into a somewhat whimsical nightmare as they come face-to-face with the mansion's ghostly inhabitants.

Determined not to be ousted by these spectral nuisances, Gabbie forms an eclectic team to address the haunting. This includes the introspective astrophysicist, Ben (played by the versatile LaKeith Stanfield), the spiritually-inclined Father Kent (brought to life by Owen Wilson), Harriet (portrayed by the effervescent Tiffany Haddish) who claims to have mediumistic abilities, and Professor Bruce Davis (a character brought to comedic life by Danny DeVito), an academic with a curious expertise in haunted domiciles. Together, this motley crew aims to cleanse the mansion of its unwelcome otherworldly guests.

However, for all its potential, the film's execution leaves something to desire. Even with the proven comedic prowess of writer Katie Dippold, who has previously showcased her talents in works like "The Heat" and "Parks and Recreation," the screenplay of "Haunted Mansion" often falters. Its attempts at humor sometimes feel forced, with much of the comedic weight resting heavily on Wilson and Haddish. Wilson's performance, although earnest, occasionally misses the comedic target. In contrast, Haddish, with her unique comedic rhythm, manages to salvage even the most lackluster lines, staying loyal to her signature comedic voice. Notably, the film occasionally dances on the fringes of Disney's traditional boundaries, sprinkling in subtle innuendos likely intended to capture the attention of adult viewers.

In terms of ambiance, Simien does pay homage to the playful and eerie spirit of the original attraction. The mansion itself becomes an almost fluid, living entity: corridors seem to stretch infinitely, ceilings tower impossibly high, secretive chambers emerge from nowhere, and the renowned ghostly portraits continue to captivate. Brief interludes of fantastical chases and eerie moments offer glimpses of the film's potential, but these flashes of brilliance are transient, often overshadowed by the narrative's inconsistent pace. Real suspense, it seems, is exclusively for the film's climactic third act.

One of the most palpable disappointments of the film is the seemingly squandered ensemble cast. With such an array of distinguished actors, one would anticipate a series of memorable performances. Yet, they appear constrained, their innate talents occasionally stifled by the script's limitations. Stanfield's portrayal of Ben, a character drowned in grief, lacks the nuance and depth he has demonstrated in past roles. The romantic subplot between his character and Dawson's feels more obligatory than organic. Additionally, the comedic genius of veterans like Wilson, DeVito, and Haddish seems underutilized, with only sporadic moments that truly resonate.

"Haunted Mansion," while deeply rooted in its gothic origins, does endeavor to weave in poignant themes. For example, the complexities of grief and the transformative power of love. It touches upon the vulnerabilities grief exposes. But it also touches on the strength that can be derived from shared sorrow and mutual support. For families seeking a blend of nostalgic eeriness with a dash of light-hearted spookiness, there are elements here that may charm. Yet, the film's patchy humor, combined with a talented but unfortunately underutilized ensemble, prevents "Haunted Mansion" from cementing its place as a Halloween staple in cinematic history.