Suburban Gothic

Suburban Gothic is a quirky supernatural comedy from the year 2014 which showcases the nervous story of a man who encounters the paranormal when he moves back to his hometown. The film boasts a delightful cast of familiar faces, led by Matthew Gray Gubler, known for his role as Dr. Spencer Reid in the hit mystery TV series Criminal Minds, and Kat Dennings of 2 Broke Girls, and Marvel's Thor fame. Director and writer Richard Bates Jr., along with co-writer Mark Bruner, masterfully knit together elements of humor and horror into a visually busty, fright-filled romp.

The story follows Raymond (Matthew Gray Gubler), an unemployed MBA with a specialization in corporate finance. Ever the reluctant hero, Raymond is a slight eccentric with a unique ability: he's able to communicate with ghosts, a gift he's chosen to ignore until now. After failing to secure employment, Raymond is forced to return to his hometown and move in with his parents, a decision that earns him no shortage of derision and teasing. His father, war veteran and landscaper Donald (Ray Wise), is a brutish man who takes an odd enjoyment in belittling his son's professional and personal misfortunes.

The quiet and seemingly normal suburban life takes a drastic turn for the bizarre when Raymond's parents unearth a Hispanic laborer's spirit with their new landscaping project—just the ghost Raymond was hoping to avoid. Unable to ignore the spectral pleas any longer, Raymond teams up with an old classmate Becca (Kat Dennings), a charming and sharp-tongued bartender who knows a thing or two about the supernatural. The unlikely duo set out on a mission - uncover the tragic past of the Hispanic worker and put his spirit to rest before he wrecks any more havoc on their quaint town.

As a fascinating blend of comedy and horror, Suburban Gothic delightfully twists the average ghost story and adds a dash of suburban ennui to stir the pot. Its unexpected humor, often deriving from Raymond's nonchalant reaction to gruesome specters and his father's twisted sense of love, cleverly breaks up the tension-filled moments of terror, making it a truly one-of-a-kind viewing experience.

Gubler puts forth a stellar performance, morphing into the eccentric Raymond with an uncanny ease which makes him instantly relatable and likable. His portrayal of the bummed out Raymond, whose morose outlook, fear of the supernatural, and personal problems contribute significantly to the film's overall humor. Dennings, as the sarcastic and straightforward Becca, provides a brilliant contrast to Gubler’s character, and the duo's chemistry sparks. Their relationship provides a refreshing romantic subplot but doesn't detract from the primary ghost-centered narrative.

Suburban Gothic’s success is also owed to its supporting cast. Ray Wise does an exceptional job portraying the intimidating and unfeeling patriarch, peppering his interactions with a dry wit that elicits both terror and amusement. The supporting ensemble, including familiar faces such as Jack Plotnick and Barbara Niven, add more depth and color to the movie, turning the sleepy suburban town into a lively and interesting backdrop.

Richard Bates Jr. successfully creates a unique style that melds together contrasting genres, part kitsch, and part macabre, and basks in its strange visual references. The director uses an eclectic palette of colors, odd camera angles, and fascinating editing techniques to create a comic book-like atmosphere which is perfect for this droll tale of suburban life turned upside down. Audiences are treated to vintage wallpapers, neon-lit bars, and vivid dream sequences that make the movie a spectacular visual treat.

Despite the comedy element, Suburban Gothic has its moments of true horror. The ghost isn't just cartoony or silly, but rather a vengeful spirit that signifies a deeper narrative, shedding light on important historical realities in the process. The film delivers tangible chills, jolting the viewers right when they are comfortably nestled in the humor wave.

In conclusion, Suburban Gothic is a unique blend of horror and comedy, standing out in its genre with eye-catching visuals, smart and funny dialogue, endearing performances, and an uncanny ability to balance the grim and the hilarious. It serves as a fantastic showcase for Gubler’s acting range, and its strange yet familiar suburban setting and historical underpinnings create an entertaining contrast to the traditional ghost story. This movie is a must-watch for those who crave a different kind of horror movie or just want a good laugh after a hard day.