The Humans
Movie Trailer
Release Date
November 24, 2021
Genre
Drama, Horror
Cast & Crew
- Richard Jenkins as Erik Blake
- Jayne Houdyshell as Deirdre Blake
- Amy Schumer as Aimee Blake
- Beanie Feldstein as Brigid Blake
- Steven Yeun as Richard
- June Squibb as Momo Blake
Director
Stephen Karam
Other Movies Director is Known For
- Speech & Debate (2017, writer)
- The Seagull (2018, writer)
Producer
Louise Lovegrove, Stephen Karam, Eli Bush
Writer
Stephen Karam (based on his Tony Award-winning play)
Budget
$6 million (estimated)
Production Company
A24, IAC Films
Running Time
108 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
R
Content Advisory
- Strong language
- Themes of mental illness and family tension
- Some disturbing imagery
Movie Story
“The Humans” is a psychological drama that unfolds over the course of a single evening, capturing the tensions and fears simmering beneath the surface of a seemingly ordinary family gathering. Adapted from Stephen Karam’s Tony Award-winning play, the film takes place during Thanksgiving in a dilapidated, dimly lit Manhattan apartment where three generations of the Blake family have come together to celebrate the holiday.
The film follows Erik Blake (Richard Jenkins), the patriarch of the family, as he navigates the complex dynamics between his wife Deirdre (Jayne Houdyshell), his two daughters Aimee (Amy Schumer) and Brigid (Beanie Feldstein), his mother Momo (June Squibb), who is suffering from dementia, and Brigid’s boyfriend Richard (Steven Yeun). As the night progresses, the seemingly mundane conversations give way to deeper, more unsettling revelations about each family member’s struggles, fears, and insecurities.
The apartment itself becomes a character in the film, with its creaky floors, flickering lights, and oppressive shadows mirroring the emotional and psychological darkness that haunts the Blake family. The film explores themes of generational trauma, the erosion of the American dream, and the existential dread that accompanies the passage of time. Karam uses the confined space and intimate setting to build a sense of claustrophobia and unease, making the audience feel as if they are intruding on the family’s most private moments.
“The Humans” is not a traditional horror film, but it uses elements of horror to heighten the tension and create a sense of foreboding. The sound design, with its unsettling creaks and groans, and the use of long, lingering shots contribute to the film’s eerie atmosphere. The characters’ interactions, filled with passive-aggressive remarks and unspoken resentments, slowly reveal the deep fractures within the family, culminating in a haunting and ambiguous ending that leaves viewers with more questions than answers.
Special Effects
The film relies on subtle, atmospheric effects to create its tension rather than overt special effects. The use of lighting and sound is crucial in building the film’s unsettling mood. Flickering lights, strange noises from within the apartment, and the play of shadows all contribute to a sense of impending dread. The minimalist approach to effects allows the film to focus on the performances and the psychological depth of the characters.
Box Office Performance
“The Humans” had a limited theatrical release and was simultaneously released on the streaming platform Showtime. While it did not achieve significant box office success, it garnered critical acclaim for its performances, direction, and the adaptation of its source material. The film resonated particularly with audiences who appreciate character-driven dramas and psychological tension.
Filming Locations
- New York City, New York, USA
Notable Quotes
- “Don’t you think it should cost less to be alive?” – Erik Blake
- “You can’t live your life worrying about dying, or you’re just gonna end up dead.” – Deirdre Blake
Behind-the-Scenes
- Stephen Karam, who directed the film adaptation, also wrote the original play, ensuring that the film stayed true to its theatrical roots while effectively translating it to the screen.
- Jayne Houdyshell reprises her Tony Award-winning role as Deirdre Blake, bringing a deep understanding of the character to the film.
Awards
- Nominated for several Independent Spirit Awards, including Best First Feature
Final Verdict
“The Humans” is a powerful and unsettling drama that captures the complexities of family life with raw honesty and emotional depth. Its blend of psychological tension and familial drama, combined with strong performances from its ensemble cast, makes it a compelling watch. While it may not appeal to those seeking traditional horror, its exploration of existential dread and the human condition will resonate with viewers who appreciate nuanced, character-driven stories.
IMDb Rating
6.2/10