What secrets do The Skeleton Key's locked doors hide? Caroline (Kate Hudson), a hospice worker, finds more than she expects when she takes a job caring for an elderly woman's (Gena Rowlands) paralyzed husband (John Hurt). When she discovers a locked attic room surrounded by an ominous air and a history of malevolence, Caroline finds out that the closer she gets to the truth, the more twisted it becomes.
It's refreshing to finally watch something that isn't just new prospective on old ideas. Originality makes this already interesting story just a little bit better. A well- written script has viewers wondering about The Skeleton Key's mysterious intellectual jigsaw puzzle, unlike other supposed “thrillers,” such as Boogeyman (2005).
The Skeleton Key delivers enough thrills to make you jump and keep you on the edge of your seat but won't terrify audiences. Creaking doors and floorboards make the mood foreboding, while not terrifying. Artistic cinematography transforms an old and slightly creepy but otherwise a normal house into a spooky backdrop for otherworldly events. The use of good lighting and good editing make all of this a winning combination.
The Skeleton Key's musical score is composed of nearly perfect selections. Southern folk songs and recorded spells accent a developing atmosphere of mystery. While the choice is excellent in itself, the placement of musical effects provides perfect elements of surprise and fear exactly where they're needed.
Sensible casting choices help in making The Skeleton Key substantial entertainment. Kate Hudson's character portrayal of Caroline shows her potential for quality acting, while Gena Rowlands will have audiences wondering whether her character is there to help or hinder.
The Skeleton Key does a fine job, a great plot, good acting, and wonderful direction make this film one of the best this year.
