Crimson Peak – 2015

Synpsis

In the aftermath of a family tragedy, an aspiring author is torn between love for her childhood friend and the temptation of a mysterious outsider. Trying to escape the ghosts of her past, she is swept away to a house that breathes, bleeds – and remembers.

This is probably one of my favorite movies. It is a ghost story and a story told very well. Also, as a period piece, the costumes and the sets are very elaborate. Let’s get into Crimson Peak.

This story begins with Edith. She dreams of being a writer and an independent woman. The era in which she lives is one where a woman has to marry well, or she will be shunned. However, Edith is determined to be her own woman and make her own way. Her father, Carter, is thrilled with his daughter’s drive, but he would like for her to be happy with the local optometrist.

After having her manuscript reviewed and rejected, Edith decides to type it instead. She feels her penmanship gave away the fact that she is a woman. While she is in her father’s office typing, Thomas Sharpe enters the room and her life. He is a Baronet and is in need of funds for a project. His home is built on a red clay mine. The clay, once harvested, can be used for various construction purposes. During his presentation, Carter abruptly cuts it short. There is something about Sir Thomas that he does not like, and he makes it known. Edith, however, is suddenly intrigued by the man and his dream. But there is a snag. Thomas is supposed to be smitten with another woman. However, he blatantly chooses Edith over her at a public soiree. This sends the whole party into a gasp. Still not liking the attraction that Sir Thomas has to Edith, her father hires a man to find out who Sir Thomas really is. What he finds out, is not good.

This movie is a classic ghost story with a love story and major betrayal wrapped all in one. Sir Thomas has a sister that gives you the creeps. The talented Jessica Chastain plays her. Oh, and did I mention that Tom Hiddleston plays Thomas. Crimson Peak is available on Netflix and probably other streaming apps.  

Lachelle Redd is an independent author with works on Amazon. Her works include fantasy, horror and science fiction. In her spare time, she enjoys being with her kids and watching movies.