When a devoted husband and father is left home alone for the weekend, two stranded young women unexpectedly knock on his door for help. What starts out as a kind gesture results in a dangerous seduction and a deadly game of cat and mouse.
Knock Knock (2015), directed by Eli Roth and starring Keanu Reeves, is a psychological thriller that delves into themes of temptation, morality, and the consequences of infidelity. The film follows Evan Webber, a married architect who becomes the target of two mysterious women, Genesis and Bel, who arrive at his doorstep seeking shelter. What begins as an innocent encounter soon escalates into a nightmarish ordeal, challenging Evan’s ethical boundaries and exposing the fragility of his seemingly perfect life.
Evan Webber (Keanu Reeves) is a successful architect living in a luxurious home with his wife, Karen (Ignacia Allamand), and their two children. While his family is away for the weekend, Evan remains behind to complete a work project. One evening, during a torrential rainstorm, two young women, Genesis (Lorenza Izzo) and Bel (Ana de Armas), knock on his door seeking assistance. Evan invites them in, offering shelter and food. As the night progresses, the women’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic and seductive, leading Evan to succumb to temptation. The following morning, he discovers that the women have no intention of leaving and are determined to exact a twisted form of retribution for his infidelity.
Temptation and Consequences
Knock Knock explores the theme of temptation and its repercussions. Evan’s initial act of kindness towards the women quickly turns into a moral transgression when he engages in an affair. The film examines how a single lapse in judgment can spiral into a series of events with devastating consequences, highlighting the fragility of human morality.
Gender Dynamics and Power
The film delves into complex gender dynamics, portraying the women as both victims and perpetrators. Their manipulation of Evan challenges traditional power structures, subverting expectations and prompting viewers to question societal norms regarding gender roles and sexual agency.
Psychological Horror and Manipulation
Knock Knock employs psychological horror to depict the manipulation and psychological torment Evan endures. The women’s calculated actions and mind games create a tense atmosphere, blurring the lines between reality and delusion. This theme underscores the horror that arises from human interactions and the capacity for psychological manipulation.
Moral Ambiguity
The film presents a morally ambiguous narrative, where the audience is compelled to empathize with both the victim and the antagonists. Evan’s infidelity is portrayed as a significant moral failing, yet the women’s extreme response raises questions about justice and retribution. This complexity challenges viewers to reflect on the nature of morality and the consequences of one’s actions.
Upon its release, Knock Knock received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. Some praised the film for its suspenseful atmosphere and the performances of the lead actresses, particularly Lorenza Izzo and Ana de Armas. However, others criticized it for its portrayal of women and the perceived lack of depth in character development. The film sparked discussions about its themes of infidelity, gender dynamics, and the portrayal of women in horror cinema.
After watching Knock Knock, viewers may experience a mix of unease and contemplation. The film’s exploration of morality and the consequences of infidelity prompts reflection on personal ethics and the complexities of human relationships. The psychological tension and unexpected twists may leave viewers questioning the nature of justice and the boundaries of human behavior. Overall, Knock Knock offers a thought-provoking and suspenseful experience that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.
