FUNERAL HOME

Cinemavixion Review

William Fruet's 1980 Canadian horror film, 'Funeral Home,' offers a chilling descent into familial secrets and psychological unraveling. Set in a former funeral parlor repurposed as a guesthouse, the narrative expertly builds suspense as young Heather arrives to stay with her grandmother, Maude. The seemingly idyllic summer retreat quickly sours with the discovery of unsettling truths about the property's past and Maude's precarious mental state. Fruet masterfully blends elements of gothic horror with a slasher sensibility, creating an atmosphere thick with dread. The film benefits from a compelling performance by Kay Hawtrey as the increasingly unstable Maude, whose outward composure masks a turbulent inner turmoil. While the plot may tread familiar ground, the execution is commendable, delivering unexpected twists and a satisfyingly grim conclusion that lingers long after the credits roll. 'Funeral Home' is a noteworthy entry in the genre, deserving of rediscovery by fans of atmospheric, character-driven horror.