Haunted Mansion (2023) is a supernatural comedy-horror film based on Disney’s beloved theme park attraction, directed by Justin Simien. This fresh take on the classic story blends spooky thrills, lighthearted humor, and emotional beats, following single mother Gabbie, played by Rosario Dawson, who moves into a sprawling, eerily beautiful New Orleans mansion with her young son, only to find it teeming with restless spirits.

As Gabbie seeks help to rid the home of its ghostly inhabitants, an eclectic team of ghostbusters assembles. The cast, featuring LaKeith Stanfield as Ben, a disillusioned paranormal expert, Tiffany Haddish as a quirky psychic, and Owen Wilson as a witty priest, brings humor and charm to the film. Danny DeVito’s role as a professor adds an extra layer of comic relief, creating a lively team that manages to balance both comedy and creepiness.

The plot focuses on the team’s attempts to understand the mansion’s haunted history and uncover the mystery behind its supernatural inhabitants. The film carefully balances its scary moments with light-hearted scenes, making it suitable for families and viewers who enjoy spooky elements without excessive horror. Notably, the movie dives deeper into the mansion’s backstory, revealing a tragic tale that humanizes the ghosts, shifting them from mere hauntings to sympathetic characters trapped in the mansion due to unresolved events from their lives.

With impressive visual effects and attention to detail, Haunted Mansion effectively recreates the eerie ambiance of Disney’s attraction. The ghosts are memorable and often amusing, with the CGI design adding a layer of charm while remaining spooky enough to keep viewers engaged. The set design is another highlight, as the mansion’s gothic architecture, creaky hallways, and shadowed rooms create a hauntingly beautiful setting that enhances the film’s supernatural tone.

One of the film’s standout elements is its blend of humor and heart. While the characters face creepy encounters, they also experience moments of bonding and self-discovery. Ben’s personal journey of overcoming grief adds an emotional depth to the narrative, grounding the supernatural events with relatable themes of healing and moving forward. This depth adds layers to the film, turning it into a story not just about ghosts but about the living and their connections with the past.

Haunted Mansion (2023) is an enjoyable, family-friendly take on the horror-comedy genre. It keeps viewers entertained with its balance of scares, laughs, and heartfelt moments. Fans of the original attraction and newcomers alike will find themselves charmed by this spooky, humorous journey that turns a haunted house into a place of healing and second chances.