On the eve of his 75th birthday, a billionaire invites his children back to the family estate, surprising them with the disturbing claim that he’s about to die. A film by Alejandro Brugués, starring Bob Gunton, Peyton List, Briana Middleton, Rachel Nichols, Austin Stowell, and David Walton.

Drew (Austin Stowell) heads back to the Abernathy family mansion for his father Charles’ 75th birthday. Charles, a billionaire businessman, has been living alone in the sprawling estate since his wife passed away. For this milestone celebration, he’s invited only his immediate family – his children. Drew, however, decides to bring his wife Hannah (Briana Middleton) along, reasoning that she’s now part of the Abernathy family too.

As their chauffeur pulls up to the mansion, Drew and Hannah are greeted by the sight of Drew’s older siblings – the twins, Madeline (Rachel Nichols) and C.J. (David Walton). Madeline doesn’t waste any time pointing out that their father had specified only immediate family for this gathering, her tone implying Drew might have overlooked this detail in the invitation. Drew, however, stands his ground. He brushes off his sister’s comment, asserting that bringing Hannah was his decision and expressing confidence that their father wouldn’t mind. This small clash over Hannah’s presence sets a subtle tone of tension as the family reunion begins.

Kami (Peyton List), the baby of the Abernathy clan and a social media influencer, makes her grand entrance last. Phone in hand, she’s already live streaming to her followers as she strolls up to greet her siblings. She introduces them one by one to her followers: Madeline, the brains behind their tech investments and entertainment divisions, and Charles Jr. (C.J.), who oversees the family’s hotels and news channels. When Kami spots Drew and Hannah, her face lights up with genuine warmth. She eagerly introduces them to her followers too, explaining how the couple runs the family’s charitable endeavors, focusing on programs for the elderly and underprivileged kids. Her bubbly energy adds a splash of modern flair to the otherwise formal family gathering.

As the family chats outside, Miles Hartmen (Reese Alexander), head of security, approaches and ushers them inside. Kami, always curious, asks about the valet. Miles explains they’ll have to handle their own luggage today since Gregory isn’t here today. Once inside, Hannah can’t help but notice the eerie quiet. She voices her concern, asking Miles where everyone is. He simply replies that Charles ordered all staff and security to take the night off. They’ll be back in the morning. This odd situation piques Madeline’s interest. When she presses Miles for an explanation, he sidesteps, insisting that Charles will fill them in himself. The family exchanges puzzled glances, sensing something unusual about this gathering.

Charles reveals the true purpose behind this gathering. It’s not merely a birthday celebration; he believes his life is in imminent danger. He tells them of a threat against him, stating cryptically that “a price on his head” will be collected by midnight. Charles explains that he’s invisted them – the only people he trusts implicitly – to save him. He then discloses a critical clause in his will: should he survive the night, his property will be divided equally among the beneficiaries. However, in the event of his death, the entire fortune will be donated to charity.

Before Miles locks down the estate, Charles suggests that Hannah should go with Miles since she is not part of his bloodline. However, Hannah insists on staying, asserting that she wouldn’t be able to forgive herself if something happens to him. Little does she know that none of them will survive the night.

Directed by Argentinian-Cuban filmmaker Alejandro Brugués, The INHERITANCE is a suspense horror film with a promising premise. Unfortunately, it falls short due to underdeveloped characters, illogical decisions, poorly written dialogue, and a predictable plot with few surprises.

The film does shine in its visual aspects. The stunning set design and cinematography of the mansion effectively build an unsettling atmosphere. The indoor swimming pool scene, in particular, creates a palpable sense that something sinister might be lurking in the shadows.

There are only two memorable kills in the entire film: one at the swimming pool and another where the evil entity drains its victim. The rest rely on typical methods we’ve seen countless times before. The film could have been tighter, but instead, the evil entity inexplicably toys with its victims for far too long rather than quickly murdering them.

Most characters behave unnaturally and illogically, making it hard for me to connect with them. The exception is Hannah, portrayed by Briana Middleton, an outsider who stumbles into the wrong place at the wrong time. Peyton List also delivers a good performance as Cami, a social media influencer and the youngest Abernathy daughter, though her screen time feels limited.

The INHERITANCE received a limited theatrical release in the United States on 2 July 2024.