3 october 2024 : With the resurgence of kitchen dramas like The Bear, the new Blumhouse film House of Spoils adds a supernatural twist to the mix. Starring Academy Award-winner Ariana DeBose—better known for her viral BAFTA hosting moment—this movie follows a chef who embarks on a chaotic journey that includes quitting her job, choosing a haunted mansion, battling ghosts, experiencing nightmares, and cooking to survive. Despite her efforts, she can’t salvage House of Spoils.
A Safe Bet
Writers and directors Bridget Savage Cole and Danielle Krudy opt for a safe approach, lacking the thrills or risks that could create tension from the chef’s insecurities. The narrative unfolds in a straightforward manner, focusing on an unnamed chef (DeBose) who leaves her high-profile restaurant after seven years to start her own with the help of investor Andres (Arian Moayed), whose character feels too reminiscent of others from Succession to leave a mark. The initial vibe of the eerie mansion does not inspire confidence in her decision.
As the chef struggles to settle into the mansion, things go awry. She attempts gardening but soon discovers the place is infested with insects, which invade the kitchen and spoil her homemade bread, invading her nightmares as well. Young chefs, including Barbie Ferreira from Euphoria, join her, and she must quickly rely on her instincts to develop a menu.
A Disappointing Flavor
Ariana DeBose manages to elevate her role, portraying a chef who strives to maintain her composure amid chaos. She conveys a mix of anxiety and determination, but her performance feels at odds with a script that plays it too safe. The film’s predictability undermines her efforts, rendering the impactful moments nearly ineffective by the end.
House of Spoils loses itself in its choices, failing to deliver meaningful commentary on consumer culture. The conclusion leaves viewers with a disappointing aftertaste, lacking substance and depth, and ultimately fails to provide the thrills one might hope for—leaving audiences craving more from their cinematic experience.
