For as long as I can remember, I’ve always enjoyed literature, as well as film, that has a flair for the macabre. The gothic genre has always appealed to me. I love the classics such as “Frankenstein” and “The Phantom of the Opera,” but I also have a fascination with movies of the same genre. When I discovered “Crimson Peak” for the first time, it was no shock that it became an instant favorite movie. 

 Edith has always believed in ghosts. Each time Edith has seen her mother, she has repeated the same mantra to her daughter. “Beware of Crimson Peak.” 

Flashforward 10 years, and Edith is working at her fathers’ office. One day, a mysterious baronet appears in the office with a business proposal. This baronet goes by the name of Thomas Sharpe. Soon enough Edith and Thomas begin to form a connection, but things with Thomas aren’t as they seem. 

Although this movie came out in 2015, it wasn’t until almost nine years later that I found and fell in love with this movie. 

For starters, “Crimson Peak” has an absolutely amazing cast. 

Edith is played by Mia Wasikowska, who is famous for her roles as Alice in “Alice In Wonderland” as well as Jane Eyre in the 2011 adaptation of “Jane Eyre. Wasikowska portrays Edith beautifully, showing us her inner strength and awareness, while also bringing out her fear and intelligence. At first glance, Edith seems naive, but as the movie progresses, we learn she is anything but. 

Lucille Sharpe, the sister of Thomas, is played by Jessica Chastain. The character herself, I despise due to the actions she takes throughout the movie, but Chastain does a phenomenal job making the audience detest the character, while also feeling for her. She isn’t a likable person, but she is a fantastic actress making the audience fall head over heels for her portrayal. 

Finally, we have the male lead, Thomas Sharpe, played by the one and only Tom Hiddleston. From the very moment he appeared on screen, he became my favorite character in the movie. His portrayal of Sir Thomas is unparalleled. The complexity of the character shines so brightly and clearly throughout the entirety of “Crimson Peak.” 

The chemistry between Edith and Thomas is unmatched. There is always an anticipation that something will go wrong (which it does), but even so, I can’t help but root for them. 

Plot twist after plot twist ensues with this movie, and I love it. However, the story is very much character driven, which I prefer over plot driven stories. 

My favorite part of “Crimson Peak” is the sheer number of metaphors and cryptic conversations that take place. From beginning to end, the foreshadowing in place during this movie leaves nothing to be desired. It is absolutely flawless. 

Although “Crimson Peak” might not be for all audiences, with its blend of horror and romance, the undeniable fact is it has some of the most beautiful cinematography I have ever seen grace the screen. In truth, I could sing the praises of it for hours. 

“Crimson Peak” has warmed its way into my heart in a way that very few movies can. I have rewatched it more times than I can count (or more times than I care to admit). From the time period, to the characters, to the cinematography, “Crimson Peak” is an absolute must watch for any fan of  the macabre.