Introduction
Welcome to our in-depth review of The Turning (2020), a psychological horror reimagining of Henry James’s classic novella The Turn of the Screw. Directed by Floria Sigismondi and featuring standout performances from Mackenzie Davis, Finn Wolfhard, and Brooklynn Prince, this film offers a chilling exploration of grief, isolation, and the supernatural. In this review, we’ll delve into the plot, performances, direction, and thematic depth of The Turning (2020)—ensuring you get the full picture before your next movie night.

Plot Overview

The Turning (2020) follows Mackenzie Davis as Kate Mandell, a young governess hired to care for two orphans, Miles (played by Finn Wolfhard) and Flora (played by Brooklynn Prince), at the remote Thornfield Hall. As Kate settles into the haunted manor, unsettling visions and inexplicable events plague her every step. What begins as an ordinary job quickly turns into a psychological thriller as Kate uncovers the house’s dark past—and her own trauma—leading to a harrowing climax that blurs the line between reality and the supernatural.

Performances

• Mackenzie Davis delivers a nuanced portrayal of Kate, balancing vulnerability and resolve as she confronts the house’s malevolent forces.

• Finn Wolfhard brings an eerie ambiguity to Miles, oscillating between charming child and unsettling presence.

• Brooklynn Prince shines as Flora, her innocent demeanor masking layers of complexity that heighten the film’s tension.

These performances ground the ghosts and apparitions in emotional reality, making The Turning (2020) more than just jump scares.

Direction & Cinematography

Floria Sigismondi’s background in music videos informs the film’s striking visual style. Each frame of The Turning (2020) is meticulously composed, using shadow and light to evoke dread. The haunted manor of Thornfield Hall itself becomes a character, its claustrophobic corridors and looming towers capturing the essence of Gothic horror. The camera’s slow, deliberate movements and sudden whip-pans amplify the sense of disorientation, keeping viewers on edge.

Sound & Atmosphere

The sound design in The Turning (2020) is masterful: creaking floorboards, distant whispers, and discordant piano notes create an oppressive atmosphere. The sparse score underscores moments of calm before shattering silences with unexpected shrieks. This careful layering of audio elements ensures that even the quietest scenes buzz with tension.

Themes & Analysis

At its core, The Turning (2020) is a meditation on grief and guilt. Kate’s personal history mirrors the tragic fate of Thornfield’s former occupants, suggesting that the true horror lies within the mind. Themes of isolation, maternal responsibility, and the unreliability of perception invite multiple interpretations—and encourage repeat viewings to catch every hidden detail.

Conclusion

The Turning (2020) stands out as a fresh take on a well-known ghost story. With its compelling performances, atmospheric direction, and thematic richness, it offers more than superficial scares. Whether you’re a fan of classic horror films or new to the genre, The Turning (2020) is a must-watch for its blend of psychological depth and spectral chills.

FAQs

Q1: Is The Turning (2020) based on a book?
Yes, The Turning (2020) is a loose adaptation of Henry James’s 1898 novella The Turn of the Screw, reimagined to focus on contemporary themes of trauma and guilt.

Q2: Who directed The Turning (2020)?
The film was directed by Floria Sigismondi, known for her visually striking style in music videos and films.

Q3: What is the runtime of The Turning (2020)?
The movie runs approximately 102 minutes, delivering a tightly paced narrative filled with suspense.

Q4: Where was The Turning (2020) filmed?
Principal photography took place in New Zealand, utilizing historic estates to capture the authentic ambiance of the haunted manor.

Q5: Does The Turning (2020) have a happy ending?
The ending of The Turning (2020) is deliberately ambiguous, leaving viewers to debate whether Kate’s experiences were supernatural or manifestations of her own psyche.