Stating a film is based on true events at this point is no longer a moniker of a quality horror experience, especially considering how loosely the label can be applied. Making this claim used to elicit chills down one’s spine, but now simply feels too commonplace. The Other People, co-written and directed by Chad McClarnon in his feature film debut, makes a solid argument for this subset of genre filmmaking to make a comeback. A constant atmosphere of dread teases figures lurking in the shadows, often briefly glimpsed by our central family, but rarely seen. This isn’t feel-good horror fun, but rather an eerie peek into the dark corners of our own homes.
Hot nerdy published author, Dr. William Marsh (Bryce Johnson, Terrifier 3, Willow Creek) moves into a new space with his daughter, Abby (newcomer Valentina Lucido), hoping to experience positive change shortly after the death of his wife. Unbeknownst to either of them, the unseen lurks in their home, watching over them in the most uncomfortable of ways. We assume that in our living quarters, there’s a barrier of safety between us and the outside world. Ghosts and goblins and creatures hiding under the bed aside, nothing can touch us within these sacred walls. What if something or someone had already infiltrated this private space from the very beginning?
The duo meet dance instructor Rachel (Lyndie Greenwood, Pooka Lives!, Nikita), and we flash forward a bit into their relationship. Rachel and William, now married, have an established life together. Abby cannot stop talking about her “imaginary friend” Erik, and starts refusing to sleep alone in fear. Who or what is causing her so much distress? Cue: creepy drawings, ominous shadowy figures, and disturbing twists. While The Other People does fall into a few typical genre cliches, it presents a surprisingly tasteful and atmospheric vision of terror. The horrors here feel tangible in a way that few others are able to accomplish. Sound design is used to make every moment tingle with the fear of the unknown. It probably helps that the characters, especially Rachel, are so likable. We actually want them to escape this awful scenario, and to, quite frankly, get the hell out of there. But if they did, would there even be a movie?
Using full advantage of framing and negative space, there always seems to be someone lurking in the background as the family goes about their normal days. In the face of danger, William and Rachel fall into patterns of sex, while Abby tries to get them to believe that a true threat is in their home. Greenwood becomes the standout performance as her character grapples with the possibilities of what may be literally hiding within their walls. The realism at hand helps to elevate the material, which relies on a chilling yet simple story to function. As an indie, it’s a little rough around the edges at times, but that may only add to the appeal. McClarnon and his brother, Trey McClarnon, have crafted a feel-bad creepy horror flick that shows definite promise for future efforts. More unnerving than horrifically scary, the film certainly will have viewers thinking twice about the places that are neglected in their own house or apartment. Was that a glimmer of something just in the corner of the eye, a trick of light, or is it The Other People?
The Other People screened at 2025’s Frightfest London.
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