Reviews and recommendations on the Compelling Beasts blog are my honest opinion. I purchase the books, comics, and movies that I recommend and review and I do not accept free copies for review.
A spirited heroine, a creepy house and a tall, dark-haired stranger are a captivating mix in the Gothic romance Crimson Peak.
What I like most about this movie is the way my opinion about two of the main characters changed throughout the story. I didn’t care for Thomas Sharpe (Tom Hiddleston) at first, so much that I tried to cling to my dislike of him, but as his layers were uncovered, the character endeared himself to me. Similarly, I initially thought that Edith (Mia Wasikowska) was a typical damsel in distress, but by the end of the story, she proves that she’s nothing of the sort.
Crimson Peak blurs the line between good and evil. It explores shades of gray and somehow manages to make the viewer empathize with nasty characters. Even the sinister Lucille Sharpe (Jessica Chastain) has some sympathetic moments.
While the movie has paranormal elements, the monsters are very real and far more disturbing than the ghosts. Though a horror movie, I didn’t find it particularly frightening, but unsettling. I especially enjoyed the bittersweet romance.
If you’re like me and enjoy some blood and guts with your romance, I recommend Crimson Peak.
For more about Crimson Peak, visit IMDb.