Inspired by the beloved Disney Parks attraction, Haunted Mansion follows mother Gabbie (Rosario Dawson) and son Travis (Chase W. Dillon) who move into a mansion that is full of unexpected ghostly surprises. Afraid, Gabbie hires a bunch of lunatics who say are spiritual experts in helping to get rid of the uninvited supernatural. We also meet Ben (LaKeith Stanfield) who is willing to help Gabbie and Travis but is also dealing with the grief of his wife. The unexpected happens when Ben becomes a target inside the Mansion.

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Justin Simien, Simien understood the assignment. Simien focuses on storytelling that is cinematic, focusing on the details, and the blend of humor, comedy, and scares. His passion for this project is showcased throughout the film, which also includes practical effects and showcases Simien filmmaker’s experience and passion for the Disney attraction. The project also showcases a lot of heartwarming moments and celebrates the beloved attraction with Easter eggs that will bring flashbacks to the last time you rode the attraction. Simien also displays an element of research in his film, showcasing that he did his homework on the beloved characters and brought them all together to tell a story that is unique and uplifting, providing an inspirational family message. Simien also focuses on delivering metaphors about grief and death that are not offensive and will spark great conversations about the topic.

The film also features an all-star ensemble cast including Tiffany Haddish, Owen Wilson, Danny DeVito, Dan Levy, Jamie Lee Curtis, Jared Leto as The Hatbox Ghost and as well as unexpected cameos which all blend well with each other, combining genuine and authentic connections that fulfill the purpose of the story and the characters. Stand-outs include Tiffany Haddish whose comical timing goes well when the film has dark moments. Haddish turns nonsensical moments into laugh-out-loud laughter. She makes dark moments glow into light. Jamie Lee Curtis as Madame Leota offers an edge in delivering the iconic attraction character with a haunting voice that will bring everyone to the edge of their seats. Curtis conveys passion and intensity which makes her storytelling original and creditable, it is admirable.

Haunted Mansion is spooky, fun, witty, and a film that should meet all expectations for fans. Fans will be captivated and will enjoy Kris Bower’s score, which celebrates the beloved attraction with unique instruments and sounds. Perhaps, a Halloween release would have made more sense, but why not celebrate the spooks in the summer. Disney has a hit with Haunted Mansion and is set to become a summer blockbuster hit that will be celebrated now and over time.

Disney Haunted Mansion hits theaters this Friday. Do not miss it!

This review was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors who are currently on strike, movies like this one would not be possible, and BeyondDisway is in support of better pay wages.