Is ‘Verity’ a Horror Movie? Exploring Anne Hathaway and Dakota Johnson’s Thriller
Anyone who caught the eerie teaser for ‘Verity’ may be curious if this film is a hidden horror movie. While it is marketed as a psychological thriller based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, the promotional tone suggests something darker. Thus, the question of whether ‘Verity’ qualifies as a horror film merits a closer examination.
In short, it straddles the line between genres. Officially classified as a thriller with psychological elements, ‘Verity’ also encompasses the dread, violence, and discomfort that horror enthusiasts often crave.
Technically, ‘Verity’ is a psychological thriller. According to Box Office Mojo, its genres include crime, drama, mystery, romance, and thriller, with horror notably absent. Viewers shouldn’t expect supernatural creatures or haunted locations.
However, the narrative possesses a sinister edge that makes the horror classification reasonable. The plot follows a struggling writer, Lowen Ashleigh, who takes on a ghostwriting assignment and uncovers chilling autobiographical notes that expose deadly family secrets. This premise is rooted in creeping paranoia rather than jump scares.
Consider it horror-adjacent. The film delves into themes of obsession, manipulation, and a protagonist who cannot trust her own reading, echoing the emotional landscape of many acclaimed thrillers.
Fans familiar with Hoover’s romantic dramas might be surprised by ‘Verity’. The film decisively ventures into psychological thriller territory, drawing on gothic influences, obsession, and unreliable narratives, which starkly contrasts with the tone of ‘It Ends with Us’.
The initial footage emphasizes this darker aspect. A German outlet noted that the teaser features dark hallways, flickering lights, suspicious glances, and an ever-present sense of danger, even labeling it psychological horror. This suggests the studio’s intent to evoke specific feelings in the audience.
From the project’s inception, it was described as a gothic, psychosexual thriller reminiscent of ‘Rebecca’ and ‘Gone Girl’. Both narratives illustrate how a house, a marriage, and a secret can pose greater threats than any villain.
Horror enthusiasts have certainly taken notice. Dread Central remarked that while Hoover might not scream horror, the trailer evokes elements of Stephen King’s psychological thrillers combined with Hitchcockian mystery and ample sexual tension, making it appealing to genre fans.
The creative team further supports this notion. Director Michael Showalter, known for his comedic work in films like ‘The Big Sick’, collaborates with horror writer Nick Antosca, whose credits include ‘Channel Zero’, ‘Brand New Cherry Flavor’, and ‘Antlers’. This unusual pairing could lend the material a unique edge.
The film’s rating adds to its allure. Rated R for sexual content, some nudity, language, violence, and bloody imagery, it suggests a narrative that won’t shy away from intensity.
The cast is another significant draw. Dakota Johnson stars as Lowen, Anne Hathaway portrays author Verity Crawford, and Josh Hartnett plays her husband Jeremy. Ismael Cruz Cordova also features in the lineup.
Interestingly, the film’s release date has shifted, moving from a mid-May slot to the Halloween season. This change aligns perfectly with the eerie atmosphere the movie aims to create.
‘Verity’ is set for a wide release in the United States on October 2, with some international markets, including France, opening a few days earlier. With Hathaway, Hoover, and Showalter also producing, the creative team has a personal investment in the film’s success.
So, is it a horror movie? Not officially, but it certainly has the tension, gore, and gothic ambiance to satisfy those seeking a twisted viewing experience this Halloween season. If you’ve read the novel, do you believe the film should portray Verity as a sympathetic victim or a true monster? Does this decision influence whether the story belongs in the horror genre?