Horror,Thriller
United States of America,United Kingdom
An American Haunting is a horror movie that is based on the true events of the Bell Witch Haunting, which occurred in 1817 in Tennessee. The movie centers around the Bell family, who are plagued by a malevolent spirit that seems intent on causing them harm.
The film primarily focuses on the relationship between the family patriarch, John Bell, and his daughter Betsy. As the haunting intensifies, Betsy becomes the main target of the ghostly entity, which torments and physically assaults her.
John Bell becomes increasingly desperate to rid his family of the spirit, but his efforts seem to only make the situation worse. Eventually, John falls ill and dies, with his last words suggesting that the spirit was responsible for his demise.
The film employs a non-linear narrative structure, moving back and forth between the present day and the events of the haunting. It also features a number of eerie and unsettling sequences, as well as a score that heightens the tension.
An American Haunting was generally well-received by critics, who praised its willingness to tackle a lesser-known piece of American folklore and its effective use of atmosphere and scares. The film stars Donald Sutherland, Sissy Spacek, Rachel Hurd-Wood, and James D'Arcy.
