Gothic Netflix thriller inspired by a classic novel has really sunk its teeth into enthralled viewers

Nathalie Emmanuel stars in The Invitation, a film you can really sink your teeth into

A darkly thrilling box office hit from a few years back has really sunk its teeth into Netflix viewers.

Inspired by the classic Bram Stoker novel Dracula, The Invitation (2022) dropped on the platform earlier this month - and since then has become a runaway word-of-mouth success all over again. Starring Nathalie Emmanuel, this chilling horror-thriller delves into themes of family, deception, and dark secrets.

The movie follows Evie (Emmanuel), a young woman reeling from the recent death of her mother. Feeling alone and yearning for a sense of belonging, she decides to take a DNA test to discover any remaining relatives. Much to her surprise, she is contacted by a distant cousin she never knew she had, who invites her to a lavish wedding in the English countryside. Intrigued and hopeful for a new connection, she accepts the invitation and travels to the grand estate.

Upon arrival, Evie is charmed by the opulent surroundings and her gracious hosts, including the enigmatic and handsome Walter. However, as she becomes more integrated into the family's world, she starts to notice strange and unsettling occurrences. The seemingly perfect façade of her newfound relatives begins to crumble, revealing a web of deceit and hidden agendas.

As the wedding day approaches, Evie uncovers the horrifying truth about her family's sinister plans and their connection to an ancient, malevolent force. Trapped in a terrifying situation, she must use her wits and courage to escape the nightmarish fate that awaits her.

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The Invitation is a gripping tale of suspense and horror, blending gothic elements with contemporary fears, and has done a great job of keeping Netflix viewers on the edge of their seats. The movie, which also features Sean Pertwee (Dog Soldiers) and Stephanie Corneliussen (Mr Robot), made a healthy £29 million at the box office off a £7.8 million budget.

'An inventive reimagining of a literary classic'

While the film received mixed reviews from critics, some lavished it with praise for its modern twist on an old story:

Pittsburgh Magazine: “The result is likable and fun. Emmanuel is a natural star; you’ll be rooting for her to fall in love, even though you know what’s coming.”

AV Club: “For audiences who’d rather RSVP to horror-lite moviegoing, The Invitation is a bloody good time - sans the blood.”

Collider: “The Invitation offers an inventive reimagining of a literary classic while asserting itself as a fun addition to the modern Gothic canon.”

Next Best Picture: “For a little over 100 minutes, The Invitation gets the job done. One wishes it ended a little stronger (though bonus points for the attempts at camp), but there are enough thrills and twists to keep audiences absorbed for under two hours.”

'It's a good film, plus Walter is hot - I would have married him!'

Fans took to X, formerly Twitter, to sing the film's praises.

Niome Thomas: "I really enjoyed that film The Invitation. It's so good and my parents knows I love vampire films. Am glad they told me about the film on Netflix."

Alpesh: "It's very good!"

Ellie Spellman: "Just watched The Invitation on Netflix. Was actually really good!"

Ced: "I finally watched The Invitation ... I liked it!"

Sensual Chaklit: "Great film ... I have a feeling there will be a sequel".

Jon: "It's a good film, plus Walter is hot - I would have married him!"

Libra: The Invitation is amazing!"