Ghosts of War (2020), directed by Eric Bress, is a supernatural horror film set during World War II. The film stars Brenton Thwaites, Theo Rossi, and Kyle Gallner and intertwines elements of war and ghostly hauntings.

Plot and Themes: The story follows a group of American soldiers who are assigned to hold a French mansion after the end of World War II. They soon discover that the mansion is haunted by malevolent spirits connected to the house’s dark past. As they face increasingly terrifying supernatural events, the soldiers must confront their own fears and unravel the mansion’s tragic history.

Performances: The cast, including Brenton Thwaites and Theo Rossi, deliver solid performances, bringing depth to their roles as soldiers grappling with both the horrors of war and supernatural threats. The actors effectively convey the psychological strain and fear experienced by their characters.

Direction and Cinematography: Eric Bress’s direction combines elements of war drama with supernatural horror, aiming to create a tense and atmospheric experience. The cinematography by Darrin Dolle captures the eerie, claustrophobic setting of the mansion and enhances the film’s haunting atmosphere. The visual style supports the film’s dark and unsettling tone.

Critique: Ghosts of War received mixed to average reviews. The film’s premise—a blend of war and supernatural horror—was noted for its originality, but its execution drew some criticism. While the atmosphere and setting are effective in creating tension, some critics felt that the film struggled with pacing and coherence. The horror elements, though intriguing, sometimes felt underdeveloped, and the plot twists may not be as impactful as intended.

Overall: Ghosts of War offers an intriguing premise that combines the psychological tension of wartime with supernatural horror. It stands out for its unique setting and atmosphere but may not fully satisfy fans of either genre. The film is notable for its ambition and the performances of its cast, though it may not achieve the same level of impact or cohesion as some other entries in the horror or war genres.