Apartment 7A Is the Best New Horror Film for Halloween

Apartment 7A Is the Best New Horror Film for Halloween

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  • Apartment 7A Carries on the Legacy of Paranoia and Control of Rosemary’s Baby
  • Paramount+ Has One of the Best Horror Movies of the Year on Its Hands

As a longtime fan of Rosemary’s Baby and a connoisseur of all things chilling and spine-tingling, let me tell you that Apartment 7A has left quite an impression on me. Having seen my fair share of horror movies, I can confidently say that this film has managed to carve out its own niche in the genre.


As Halloween approaches, many horror enthusiasts are on the hunt for an ideal playlist to sustain them throughout October. To achieve your goal of watching 31 (or more) movies, you’ll need a blend of ’80s camp and ’70s grit, combined with contemporary hits. Just before we dive into the spooky month, on September 27th, Paramount+ might have unveiled the best films to satisfy your cravings for modern, stylized horror, making them a great addition to your collection of horror classics.

The latest horror movie on Paramount+, titled “Apartment 7A,” is making waves. Set in New York during the ’60s, this production seamlessly blends the allure of the era’s theater world with spine-tingling satanic elements. Let’s delve deeper into this new film by Natalie Erik James and why it deserves a spot on your Halloween watchlist.

There Are Many Hidden Secrets Inside Apartment 7A

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After a mishap during a performance that left her with bad fortune and earning the nickname “the fallen dancer,” Terry Gionoffrio (portrayed by Julia Garner) finds herself juggling auditions, as her dream of shining on stage seems to fade with every refusal. Yet, Terry clings to hope that her luck might turn around when she is welcomed into the home of Minnie and Roman Castevet, who reside in the Bramford building, a notorious address housing New York’s upper-class society.

In this scenario, she encounters Alan Marchand, a prominent theater producer, and subsequently lands a part in his new production. However, after an ominous night filled with fainting and disturbing spectral visions of a demon, she wakes up to discover her luck. As Terry rejoices over her success, she gradually grows uneasy about those around her, suspecting they harbor ancient secrets linked to satanic rituals and are manipulating her for a sinister purpose within the building’s haunted walls.

The film was helmed by Natalie Erika James, who has previously created the critically overlooked horror movie focusing on sisterhood and bereavement titled “Relic.” Notably, this movie serves as a prequel to Roman Polanski’s classic 1968 production, “Rosemary’s Baby.” Julia Garner takes on the character of troubled dancer Terry Gionoffrio in the lead role. The ensemble cast also includes Dianne Wiest and Kevin McNally portraying Minnie and Roman Castevet, respectively, Jim Sturgess as Broadway producer Alan Marchand, and Marli Siu as Annie, Terry’s fellow dancer and closest friend.

Apartment 7A Carries on the Legacy of Paranoia and Control of Rosemary’s Baby

Apartment 7A Is the Best New Horror Film for HalloweenApartment 7A Is the Best New Horror Film for HalloweenApartment 7A Is the Best New Horror Film for Halloween

Although some debate exists about its status as a prequel to Rosemary’s Baby, this film effectively recreates the same sense of paranoia and control that characterized the chilling horror of the Roman Polanski classic. Terry Gionoffrio’s descent mirrors Mia Farrow’s journey in Rosemary, as her dreams and ambitions clash with a pact with the devil. Moreover, it expands on the sinister legacy established by families like the Castevets, demonstrating how deeply entrenched and institutionalized evil resides within the infamous Bramford building.

The apartment labeled 7A presents an unnerving perspective of the supernatural and satanic activities, echoing the chilling themes portrayed in “Rosemary’s Baby.” The debut of the devil, a glittering idol embodying Terry’s yearning for stardom on Broadway, is a haunting spectacle that lingers. What makes it truly terrifying is the persistent feeling of danger, as if evil is always lurking, monitoring Terry. This could be through the manipulative residents of the Bramford or an enigmatic force subtly surrounding Terry, safeguarding her to ensure she fulfills her destiny. In essence, Apartment 7A instills a continuous feeling of disquiet, and its startling moments can be as unsettling as Terry’s day-to-day encounters with the affluent and fellow Broadway aspirants; evil subtly infiltrates every scene of the film.

Paramount+ Has One of the Best Horror Movies of the Year on Its Hands

Apartment 7A Is the Best New Horror Film for HalloweenApartment 7A Is the Best New Horror Film for HalloweenApartment 7A Is the Best New Horror Film for Halloween

Natalie Erika James is a director to keep an eye on. In Apartment 7A, James crafts a very immersive experience that brings you right into the glamor of ’60s New York theater offset by an ancient evil preying on the innocent. These contrasting vibes also play into horror scenes, with Terry’s initiation being a literal dance with the devil as the lines between fantasy and reality are blurred in her first meeting with the gem-encrusted demon coming accompanied by a dance number.

In a visual sense, Flat 7A provides an engaging atmosphere that transports spectators back to the ’60s through its detailed costumes and set design. This captivating portrayal of New York showcases both romantic charm and hidden darkness, as well as deep-rooted evil institutions. For those unfamiliar with the series, watching the Roman Polanski classic horror-thriller is not a prerequisite to appreciate Apartment 7A. Although it shares themes of occultism, paranoia, and power dynamics, the Natalie Erika James film maintains its unique identity within the franchise.

In a remarkable portrayal, Julia Garner delivers a performance that could shape her career as she skillfully plays Terry Gionoffrio, a complex character who embodies both fear of the unknown and a strong spirit that keeps her from being merely a victim of horrifying circumstances. The movie primarily focuses on her journey and close encounter with pure evil, stirring sympathy from horror enthusiasts who will root for her success. This film makes an excellent choice for a Halloween night out, offering a gripping narrative, stunning visuals, and chilling glimpses of evil. Stream “Apartment 7A” now on Paramount+, as it is one of the top horror movies of 2024.

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2024-09-29 05:32