Why Eli Roth's Incredible Dark Fantasy for Kids Deserves More Recognition
Discover the magic of Eli Roth's The House with a Clock in its Walls - a dark fantasy adventure for kids that's surprisingly underrated Find out what it's about, what it's based on, and how it ends
Eli Roth, best known for his work in the horror genre, surprised audiences with his 2018 film, The House with a Clock in its Walls. This charming and clever movie follows the story of 10-year-old Lewis Barnavelt as he moves into a spooky and haunted old house. Although Roth is renowned for his darker films, such as Cabin Fever and Hostel, this foray into children's fantasy is a refreshing change of pace. Additionally, the film is based on a beloved book series that captivated readers from 1973 to 2008.
What Is The House With A Clock In Its Walls About?
The House with a Clock in its Walls, a captivating Eli Roth production, follows the story of Lewis Barnavelt as he moves in with his eccentric uncle Jonathan Barnavelt (Jack Black). The plot thickens as Lewis discovers that his uncle is a warlock. The movie's charm lies in its diverse range of characters, particularly Jonathan's close friend, a witch named Florence Zimmerman (Cate Blanchett), whose scenes are a delight to watch.
While the '90s had some great horror shows for children, The House with a Clock in its Walls demonstrates that there are also several fantasy/horror movies tailored for young audiences. However, the movie's appeal extends beyond just children; the relatable character of Lewis and the mysterious old house are sure to captivate adults as well. Lewis' desire to bond with his uncle while simultaneously uncovering the secrets of the house is a theme that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Lewis's determination to explore his own magical abilities makes him an engaging protagonist, despite Jonathan's reservations. Jack Black's infectious energy adds to the fun of the film, while Cate Blanchett's portrayal of Florence is perfectly enigmatic and unsettling. The House with a Clock in its Walls succeeds in its portrayal of low fantasy, with the clock providing both fascination and horror for audiences. Furthermore, Lewis's personal tragedy makes him a relatable and well-crafted character.
What Is The House With A Clock In Its Walls Based On?
The House with a Clock in its Walls is an adaptation of the beloved book series by John Bellairs, which features the Gothic illustrations of Edward Gorey. The series includes a total of twelve books, with the final installment, The Sign of the Sinister Sorcerer, published in 2008. Gorey's distinctive art style has also graced the pages of classics like H.G. Wells' The War of the Worlds and Bram Stoker's Dracula. Bellairs has written several other fantasy novels, including The Face in the Forest, which was published in 1969, and some of these books have also been adapted into memorable films.
How Does The House With A Clock In Its Walls End?
In the climactic conclusion of The House with a Clock in its Walls, Jonathan is transformed into an infant through the clock's enchantment, while Lewis learns a poignant lesson about letting go of his parents' passing after throwing the Magic 8-Ball to the ground. With the clock shattered, Lewis harnesses its magical powers to vanquish the nefarious Selena Izard and Isaac Izard, causing them to dissipate into nothingness. The film culminates with a heartwarming resolution, as Florence and Jonathan pick up Lewis from school and the trio bond over their shared experiences. Lewis also finds a new friend in Rose Rita Pottinger, making his time at school much more enjoyable.
The House with a Clock in its Walls is a delightful sci-fi flick that children will love. The ending satisfies audiences' expectations as they witness Lewis finally finding happiness and becoming a part of a loving family once again, after enduring a tragic loss.
