If you’re looking for an easy answer as to whether we need another Insidious movie…well, it’s a complicated answer. Part 5 of the franchise, aptly titled Insidious: The Red Door, sees the old gang come back together for another terrifying adventure. The only difference is that it’s been 13 years since the original movie came out and 10 years since the events of Chapter 2. And yes, it’s cool to see Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Ty Simpkins, Andrew Astor, and Lin Shaye. But is it enough to keep this franchise floating? And do we even need that in 2023?
Directed by Wilson, The Red Door shifts focus to Dalton as he’s heading to his first year of college. His relationship with his father is shattered and he doesn’t remember the events that led him to being in a coma or exploring the further. Problems start arising when Dalton has waking and sleeping experiences as if the further is reaching out to him. And as it always goes, because we’re curious as humans, Dalton starts exploring those bits of himself that he doesn’t remember. Then the red-faced demon comes back into the picture, and things really start getting terrifying for the Lambert family.
Honestly, chances are I’m going to watch it. Let’s be clear about that. But personally, I’m not too sure if we need another Insidious film besides for nostalgic value. The Lambert family story felt complete after the first two movies, the third one was forgettable, and so was the fourth one. And the fact that the Lambert family wasn’t the focus of the third and fourth movies speaks volumes. This is more about money and how much they can make off that nostalgic value. And look, I want the behind-the-scenes and on-camera people to have jobs, but enough is enough when it comes to the continuous sequels and reboots.
Just look over on the Youtube channel Alter. They have tons of free short horror films that pack a punch, are fresh ideas, and speak of the evolving nature of horror. And yes, like what you like, and maybe that’s Insidious. But in the last couple of years, it feels like it’s been sequels or reboots left and right and nothing more. That’s not sustainable in any way, shape, or form. And hopefully Hollywood will understand that sooner rather than later instead of just thinking, “Hmmmm what will make a quick buck?”
Watch the trailer for Insidious 5 below:
Insidious 5 hits theaters on July 7, 2023.