“Abandoned” (2022) is a psychological horror film directed by Spencer Squire, marking his feature film directorial debut. The movie, written by Erik Patterson and Jessica Scott, stars Emma Roberts, John Gallagher Jr., and Michael Shannon. The story revolves around a young woman named Sara who moves with her husband to a remote farmhouse, only to discover disturbing secrets about the place that threaten her sanity. As a chilling tale of isolation and paranoia, “Abandoned” explores themes of fear, mental breakdown, and the haunting effects of the past.

The film centers on Sara, played by Emma Roberts, who, along with her husband Alex (John Gallagher Jr.), moves to a secluded farmhouse in the hopes of starting fresh. The couple seeks peace and tranquility after Sara’s recent struggles, but their new home harbors dark secrets. As Sara becomes more isolated and disturbed by strange occurrences in the house, she begins to question her own perceptions of reality. Tension builds as Sara’s past trauma intertwines with the sinister history of the farmhouse, leading to a terrifying climax.

One of the central themes in “Abandoned” is the psychological impact of isolation. The farmhouse, isolated from the rest of the world, becomes a symbol of Sara’s growing detachment from reality. As she spends more time in the house, she experiences a deterioration of her mental health, blurring the lines between what is real and what is imagined. The film delves into how isolation can exacerbate existing fears and mental health issues, making Sara’s journey not just a physical one, but a psychological battle as well.

Another significant theme in “Abandoned” is the influence of the past on the present. As Sara uncovers more about the farmhouse’s history, she discovers that it has a dark and troubling past that mirrors her own struggles. The film explores how past traumas can haunt individuals, affecting their present decisions and perceptions. Sara’s internal conflict is mirrored by the eerie presence of the house, and the unresolved ghosts of the past seem to invade her every thought. The past, both personal and historical, becomes a constant source of fear and anxiety for Sara.

The success of “Abandoned” lies in its ability to create a tense and unnerving atmosphere. Director Spencer Squire uses the rural setting of the farmhouse to great effect, emphasizing the sense of isolation and vulnerability. The cinematography makes full use of the dark, empty spaces within the house, creating an oppressive environment that mirrors Sara’s growing sense of dread. The eerie sound design and subtle visuals heighten the tension, drawing the audience into Sara’s distorted perception of reality. The film relies on atmosphere and psychological suspense rather than overt gore, making it a slow-burning, unsettling experience.

The performances in “Abandoned” are integral to its success. Emma Roberts delivers a gripping performance as Sara, capturing the emotional depth of a woman unraveling under the weight of isolation and fear. John Gallagher Jr. plays Alex, Sara’s supportive but distant husband, whose own struggles with the move to the farmhouse create tension between the couple. Michael Shannon’s portrayal of a mysterious neighbor adds an extra layer of unease to the story, his enigmatic presence hinting at hidden truths. Each character plays a crucial role in heightening the film’s sense of suspense and mystery.

In conclusion, “Abandoned” (2022) is a psychological horror film that masterfully blends themes of isolation, mental health, and the haunting effects of the past. Through its strong performances, atmospheric direction, and compelling storyline, the film keeps the audience on edge, building suspense as it explores the fragility of the mind. Spencer Squire’s directorial debut is a chilling portrayal of how fear can warp perception and the terrifying consequences of being trapped in a place—both physically and mentally—that holds your darkest secrets.