The Awakening

Set in post-World War I England, "The Awakening" follows Florence Cathcart (Rebecca Hall), a determined author and skeptic who debunks supernatural myths. Called to a boys' boarding school to investigate mysterious sightings of a ghost, Florence encounters eerie phenomena that challenge her rational beliefs. As she delves deeper into the school's haunting secrets, she must confront her own past and the uneasy truths lurking beneath the surface. Blending psychological suspense with atmospheric horror, the film explores themes of grief, belief, and the elusive boundary between reality and the supernatural.

"The Awakening" received mixed to moderately positive reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 64% approval rating, signaling a generally favorable response. The site's consensus highlights Rebecca Hall's compelling performance and the movie's effective moody atmosphere, though some critics noted a slow pace and predictable plot twists. IMDb users rate the film at 6.5/10, reflecting a balanced reception from audiences. Metacritic scores it 53 out of 100, indicating mixed or average reviews. RogerEbert.com praised the film's gothic setting and Hall's captivating screen presence but felt the film's conclusion was somewhat underwhelming. Variety commended the eerie cinematography and subtle scares but mentioned that the narrative lacked originality. Overall, "The Awakening" appeals to fans of classic ghost stories who appreciate atmospheric tension over overt horror thrills, delivering a haunting yet contemplative viewing experience.