Story: Two couples rent a vacation home for what should be a celebratory weekend get-away.
From the opening shot until the final credits started rolling I was invested. The way the story slowly unfolds as we get to know these characters, flaws and all, until the inevitable brutal ending. We've seen this story told a hundred times before, from different perspectives and angles but the realistic approach Dave Franco brings to the table gives The Rental a different edge. You really feel like this could happen to you and the flick does have some genuinely creepy moments. Brutal but never over-the-top.
I'm starting to enjoy this new trend of funny actors giving their energy to horror stories. We have Danny McBride with the Halloween sequel. We have Jordan Peele with both Get Out & Us. Sometime next year we'll have Spiral (the new Saw entry) with a story by Chris Rock. And now we have The Rental both written and directed by the ever sexy Dave Franco.
Watching this I couldn't help but be reminded of an early 00's slasher flick My Little Eye. With the growing dread and the slow build up towards the climax. If you've yet to see My Little Eye I suggest you do as it is a very modest, creepy and violent horror film.
The Rental is more interested in characters, their relationships and how betrayal can further complicate a messed-up situation. Dan Stevens & Sheila Vand are the ones who get more focus. I got to see a different side to Dan Stevens (Downtown Abbey), was introduced to Sheila (A Girl Walks Home Alone At Night) whom I've never seen before and they're both great. Jeremy Allen White plays a toned down version of his Lip character from Shameless, he's really good at it and I always love the guy. Alison Brie (Scream 4) plays the voice of reason and pretty much the only one I was truly invested. My only complaint is she need more screen-time. Toby Huss (Halloween) gave me the creeps as the racist house keeper.
The Rental is a slow burner, one that I didn't find boring at all but if you like your horror cut to the chase then this won't be for you. There's a lot of atmosphere and build-up, but there's also a lot of suspense and violence. I for one, fucking loved it. One of my favorite films of 2020 by far. Right next to The Lodge, Possessor, & Relic. Actually, if you enjoyed those mentioned, you will have a blast with this.
P.S. Now I wanna rent that beautiful house with its secluded location because it is just gorgeous.
Here's the trailer:
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