I've yet to see all of his filmography, but lately Guillermo has frustrated me. I found Pacific Rim underwhelming. A lot of his projects that I am excited for are often delayed indefinitely or axed altogether (I'm looking at you SILENT HILLS). So when the trailer for this was revealed I was hesitant. The premise is juicy, but will the delivered meal be tasty?

Oh, yes! Very tasty! This movie got a rap from some people so going into it I was all "I called it!", but watching it I was like "This is AMAZING!". Even from the opening scenes that were lighthearted and the joyous music it was a very fun vibe to get into! And the dark scenes were so devilishly dark it was fun.

The performances are awesome. Jessica Chastain kiiiiiiills as the antagonistic role. Tom Hiddleston is the most charming actor in the business, and with his particular role, the ability to be likable and unlikable is a tricky necessity.

Of course, one could argue the true star is the amazing set design. Holy crap, what a lovely house. And that is coming from someone who couldn't give a lick about interior design. An infinitesimal amount of golden stars to the set design crew as well as the costume department. For sure, Crimson Peak is one of the most beautiful movies to come out in its year.

There were a few complaints/comments about the movie I want to address:

1) Ghosts: some people argue that the ghosts were unnecessary and could've been left out of the story. I liked the ghosts! It's unique to see a movie where ghosts aren't the MAIN concern. Here they aid the narrative throughout out instead of the being at the center. I also really liked the look of the ghosts! While practical ghosts would've been great, these ghosts are very frightening and designed well.

2) Gore: a lot of people said this movie could've been without the excessive gore. I actually really liked the juxtaposition of the old time classic Vincent Price era film with the bloody moments because I haven't been exposed to that before and it was thrilling! Plus, there were some key gore moments that we're executed amazingly and were unsettling to watch. If anything, it's admirable the studio didn't cut these moments for a PG-13 rating.

(Spoilers maybe for 3?)

3) Sex scene: I don't think there's a problem with having a hot sex scene in the movie, just not with those characters. It would make more sense for the hot and heavy sex scene to be between the brother and sister because that seems like a very physical relationship and plus the incest would be unsettling to see. The sex scene in the movie should've been tamed because that's a relationship that seems more genuine and emotion based.

Crimson Peak isn't a new story by any means, but it's beautifully filmed and very well executed. I'm actually taken aback people seemingly didn't like it as much. As far as Gothic horror/romance goes, it's hard to beat this!