The Last House, a Netflix original, is a sci-fi thriller that, despite its intriguing premise and strong lead actors, falls flat. The story revolves around a family trapped in their suburban home due to a mysterious phenomenon, with a particular focus on the fate of their beloved dog, Cassidy.
The film's central issue lies in its script, which feels dated and lacks the creativity expected from a modern sci-fi thriller. The actors, Wagner Moura and Greta Lee, struggle to bring depth to their characters, resorting to shouting as a primary method of communication. This approach not only diminishes the quality of the film but also detracts from the intended suspense and tension.
One of the most emotionally impactful scenes involves the death of Cassidy, the family's golden retriever. The decision to kill Cassidy, a beloved pet, is a controversial one, and it leaves a sour taste in the viewer's mouth. The use of Cassidy's death as a means to an end, where Jason resorts to shooting the dog, is particularly distressing. This act not only raises ethical questions about animal welfare but also underscores the film's overall lack of empathy and creativity.
As the plot progresses, Jason's resourcefulness takes center stage. He employs Cassidy's remains as a cruel and unusual bait to trap wild animals, a decision that further highlights the film's insensitivity. The depiction of these scenes, where one animal after another is killed for the sake of survival, is not only brutal but also raises questions about the film's moral compass.
The resolution of the mystery behind the rain and supernatural occurrences is underwhelming and lacks the intellectual depth one would expect from a sci-fi thriller. The film's inability to provide a satisfying explanation for the events that unfold leaves viewers with a sense of disappointment.
In conclusion, The Last House is a missed opportunity. While it had the potential to be an engaging and thought-provoking thriller, it falls short due to its poor script, lack of emotional depth, and insensitive treatment of animal welfare. The death of Cassidy, in particular, serves as a stark reminder of the film's shortcomings, leaving viewers with a lingering sense of unease and a desire for better storytelling.
