Antebellum

Movie Trailer

Release Date
September 18, 2020

Genre
Horror, Thriller, Mystery

Cast & Crew

• Janelle Monáe as Veronica Henley / Eden
• Eric Lange as Senator Denton
• Jena Malone as Elizabeth
• Jack Huston as Captain Jasper
• Kiersey Clemons as Julia
• Gabourey Sidibe as Dawn
• Marque Richardson as Nick

Director
Gerard Bush, Christopher Renz

Other Movies Director is Known For

• 22 (Short Film, 2015)

Producer
Sean McKittrick, Raymond Mansfield, Zev Foreman, Lezlie Wills

Writer
Gerard Bush, Christopher Renz

Budget
$10 million

Production Company
QC Entertainment, Lionsgate

Running Time
105 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R (for disturbing violent content, and language)

Content Advisory

• Graphic violence
• Intense scenes of racism and slavery
• Strong language
• Psychological horror elements

Movie Story
“Antebellum” follows the harrowing journey of Veronica Henley (Janelle Monáe), a successful author who becomes trapped in a horrifying reality that blends the past with the present. The story opens with scenes set on a Confederate plantation where Eden, a woman of grace and resilience, endures unimaginable suffering. However, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that Eden is not who she seems. The film alternates between the 19th century and the present day, slowly revealing the true nature of the nightmare Veronica is ensnared in.

Veronica, who is also Eden, finds herself in a surreal world where the horrors of slavery are not just a distant memory but a terrifying present. She must fight to escape from this twisted reality while uncovering the dark secrets that bind her to the plantation. As the lines between time and identity blur, Veronica’s intelligence and courage are her only tools in a battle against the forces that seek to silence her voice forever.

The film’s twist is both shocking and thought-provoking, as it challenges the viewer to confront the enduring legacy of racism and the ways in which history’s darkest moments continue to echo in the present. “Antebellum” masterfully combines psychological horror with social commentary, making it a disturbing yet compelling narrative about the inescapable nature of trauma and the fight for freedom.

Special Effects
“Antebellum” employs a blend of practical effects and CGI to create its haunting atmosphere. The film’s depiction of the plantation is particularly notable for its unsettling realism, which is heightened by the use of stark lighting and meticulous set design. The transitions between the past and the present are executed with a disorienting fluidity that mirrors the protagonist’s own confusion and terror.

Box Office Performance
“Antebellum” grossed approximately $6.9 million worldwide, a modest performance, likely impacted by its release during the COVID-19 pandemic when many theaters were closed or operating at limited capacity.

Filming Locations

• New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

Notable Quotes

• “We are the future, our ancestors’ wildest dreams.”
• “The past is never dead. It’s not even past.”

Behind-the-Scenes
The directors, Gerard Bush and Christopher Renz, were inspired to create “Antebellum” after a vivid nightmare that Bush experienced. The film’s plantation scenes were shot on actual historical sites in Louisiana, adding an extra layer of authenticity and discomfort to the narrative.

Awards

• None

Final Verdict
“Antebellum” is a haunting and thought-provoking film that blends horror with sharp social commentary. While it may not be an easy watch, it is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of historical atrocities. Janelle Monáe’s performance is a standout, carrying the film through its most intense and challenging moments. Though it received mixed reviews, “Antebellum” is an ambitious work that pushes the boundaries of the horror genre, making it worth a watch for those who appreciate cinema that engages with real-world issues.

IMDb Rating
5.7/10