The Haunting of Bly Manor (2020) Review in 2025
The Haunting of Bly Manor is a spine-tingling adaptation of Henry James' classic ghost story, The Turn of the Screw, set in a sprawling English estate. The series follows Dani, a young American nanny, as she takes care of two children at Bly Manor, only to discover that the estate is haunted by malevolent spirits.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to mature themes and intense horror elements.
CineReview Recommendation
Highly recommended for fans of horror, mystery, and thriller genres. Suitable for streaming on Netflix.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The series explores the dark past of Bly Manor, where a tragic event led to the deaths of two children, and the subsequent haunting by the vengeful spirits of the children. As Dani delves deeper into the mystery, she uncovers the dark secrets of the estate and the true nature of the haunting.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is a masterful adaptation of Henry James' classic ghost story, with a unique twist that adds a new layer of complexity to the narrative. The pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of slow-burning tension and intense horror moments.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Victoria Pedretti delivering a standout performance as Dani. The supporting cast is equally impressive, bringing depth and nuance to their characters.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with a deep emotional depth. Dani, the protagonist, is a strong and relatable character, and the supporting cast adds to the overall tension and suspense.
direction9.50/10
The direction is superb, with Mike Flanagan bringing a unique visual style to the series. The use of lighting, camera angles, and sound design creates a truly immersive experience that draws the viewer in.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with a mix of sweeping landscapes and intimate close-ups. The use of color and lighting creates a haunting atmosphere that perfectly complements the story.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Haunting of Bly Manor is a masterful adaptation of Henry James' classic ghost story, with a unique twist that adds a new layer of complexity to the narrative. The pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of slow-burning tension and intense horror moments.
Cons
The series can be slow-paced at times, and some viewers may find the ending to be a bit confusing.
Notable Quotes
"The house is a prison, and we're all trapped inside."
"The past is a foreign country, they do things differently there."
