Abandoned (2022), directed by Spencer Squire in his feature film debut, is a psychological horror film that explores themes of isolation, guilt, and mental unraveling. Written by Erik Patterson and Jessica Scott, the film stars Emma Roberts, John Gallagher Jr., and Michael Shannon. Set in a remote farmhouse, the story follows the unsettling experiences of a young woman, Sara (played by Emma Roberts), and her husband Alex (John Gallagher Jr.) as they move into a seemingly idyllic but mysterious rural property. As the couple settles into their new home, Sara begins to experience disturbing visions and a growing sense of dread, leading her to question her own sanity. With its atmospheric tension, strong performances, and psychological depth, Abandoned offers a fresh take on the horror genre, focusing on the psychological rather than the supernatural.

In Abandoned, Sara and Alex, a young couple, relocate to an isolated farmhouse in an attempt to escape the pressures of city life and start fresh. The couple hopes the change of scenery will help them heal after a series of personal struggles. However, their new home, which is old and full of history, holds dark secrets. Soon after moving in, Sara begins to experience strange and unsettling occurrences, including eerie visions, inexplicable sounds, and the feeling that she is being watched. As Sara’s mental state deteriorates, she begins to suspect that the house might be haunted, or that something far more sinister is at play. Throughout the film, Sara’s isolation and paranoia grow as she becomes increasingly convinced that her perceptions are being manipulated. The line between reality and delusion blurs, culminating in a shocking and tragic revelation.

At the heart of Abandoned is the theme of isolation, both physical and psychological. The rural farmhouse, surrounded by miles of barren land, becomes a symbol of Sara’s mental state as she grows more disconnected from the world around her. The film explores how isolation can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and paranoia, particularly for someone already struggling with emotional trauma. As Sara begins to lose her grip on reality, the house becomes a prison, both literally and metaphorically. The sense of being trapped in an environment that heightens her fear is compounded by her growing sense of alienation from her husband, Alex. The psychological horror that Sara experiences is not just external, but internal—she is haunted by her own mind, unable to trust her senses or her husband’s assurances.

The performances in Abandoned are a key element in driving the film’s emotional and psychological tension. Emma Roberts delivers a standout performance as Sara, capturing her vulnerability, confusion, and descent into madness with nuance and intensity. Sara is a complex character, struggling with personal demons, guilt, and the fear of losing control. Roberts brings depth to her portrayal, making Sara’s experiences both relatable and terrifying. John Gallagher Jr. as Alex plays a more grounded, supportive role, but his character’s actions and motivations also come into question as the story unfolds. Michael Shannon, in a supporting role, adds a layer of mystery and tension, playing a character whose true intentions are unclear. The dynamic between the characters creates a palpable sense of uncertainty, as viewers are left unsure of who to trust.

Abandoned excels in creating a foreboding atmosphere that amplifies its psychological horror elements. The film’s slow pacing, combined with carefully crafted cinematography, builds an unnerving sense of dread. The dimly lit interiors of the farmhouse, the isolation of the surrounding land, and the unsettling sound design all contribute to the film’s haunting tone. The visuals are often disorienting, reflecting Sara’s deteriorating mental state, with moments of surrealism that leave viewers questioning what is real and what is a figment of her troubled mind. The use of shadows and tight, claustrophobic spaces enhances the tension, making the audience feel as trapped and helpless as Sara. This focus on psychological horror—over traditional jump scares—creates a more intimate, unsettling experience.

One of the key narrative devices in Abandoned is the concept of the unreliable narrator. As Sara’s mental state unravels, the audience is left in a constant state of uncertainty. Are the haunting experiences she encounters real, or are they a manifestation of her trauma and guilt? This uncertainty is expertly crafted through the film’s plot twists and misdirections, keeping viewers on edge. As Sara delves deeper into the mystery of the house, the audience is led to question the truth of her perceptions. This ambiguity, combined with the slow revelation of her past and the secrets of the house, builds toward a climactic and emotionally charged conclusion. The final twist, which reveals the true nature of the horrors Sara faces, is both surprising and tragic, adding emotional weight to the film’s horror elements.

In conclusion, Abandoned (2022) is a psychologically charged horror film that emphasizes atmosphere, character development, and the exploration of the human mind under stress. With strong performances, particularly from Emma Roberts, the film delves into themes of isolation, guilt, and paranoia, offering a fresh take on the horror genre. While it may not rely on traditional supernatural elements, Abandoned creates a deeply unsettling experience through its slow-building tension, psychological complexity, and shocking twists. Spencer Squire’s directorial debut marks the arrival of a filmmaker with a strong command of the genre, and Abandoned stands as a compelling example of how horror can be used to explore deeper emotional and psychological themes. The film ultimately leaves viewers reflecting on the fragility of the human mind and the terrifying consequences of losing one’s grip on reality.