The Invitation (2015) REVIEW

Imagine the situation - your ex partner invites you over to a dinner party, awkward right? Add in the fact that you haven't seen them in over two years, and the party is taking place at your old home that you shared together and it becomes even worse.
This is the situation that Will (Logan Marshall Green) finds himself in when he attends a party held by his ex wife Eden (Tammy Blanchard). Will and his new girlfriend Kira (Emayatzy Corinealdi) arrive and already seems awkward. Eden and her new husband David (Michel Huisman) have invited some old, dear friends but also two very strange guests who they met in their recent trip to Mexico....
As the night dwindles on, Will can't shake the feeling that something is very wrong.
David tells the group that he and Eden are changed people. They have found a new lease of life, and soon he shows them an accompanying strange video to explain, followed by painful game of truth.
Is it all in Will's head that something isn't right? Or is his past and shared history with Eden simply haunting him forever? And who can he trust around that dinner table?
The Invitation is an chilling, entertaining and purely rare slow burner with an exceptional pay off.
It takes its time to introduce the players, the scenery and the mood.
As the audience, we watch the cogs turning in Will's brain at the party, he sees a door being locked or something in a draw and the paranoia clings to every frame. We feel his fear, not trusting a soul, ready to jump but the film keeps us waiting.
With so many supporting cast, some feel undeveloped or unimportant, I think some just needed more time on screen so that we cared more.
This film isn't for everyone as some people may turn off it off before the third amped up act as it can feel very slow.
The film looks beautiful and excellent writing and superb acting allow the film to breathe and find its footing, and by the time the reveals come, the audience are immersed, and teetering on the edge of their seats.
The last shot is truly haunting and just fantastic.
My jaw dropped.
I cannot say anymore without giving spoilers, please watch! 8.5/10