31 Days of Horror: Abandoned (2022)

Abandoned (2022) is a slow-burning psychological horror film that effectively merges themes of isolation, motherhood, and mental illness. Directed by Spencer Squire and starring Emma Roberts, John Gallagher Jr., and Michael Shannon, the movie focuses on a young couple who move into a remote farmhouse with their newborn son. What begins as an attempt to start fresh soon spirals into a psychological nightmare, especially for Sara (Roberts), as her postpartum psychosis worsens in the eerie, isolated environment.

Emma Roberts delivers a standout performance, portraying the fragility and confusion that come with Sara's deteriorating mental state. Her sense of paranoia and despair feels tangible, drawing viewers deep into her unraveling psyche. John Gallagher Jr. provides a grounded and sympathetic counterpart as Sara's husband, while Michael Shannon, as the mysterious and unnerving neighbor, adds an extra layer of suspense and unpredictability to the plot.

One of the film's strongest elements is its haunting atmosphere. The farmhouse itself feels like a character—its creaking floors and oppressive silence contributes to the growing sense of dread. The haunting effects are subtle but effective, giving the film an almost claustrophobic intensity as Sara's mental health declines. By the end, the audience is left wondering what was real and what was a figment of her crumbling mind, drawing comparisons to the classic short story The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. Like that story, Abandoned blurs the lines between external threats and internal struggles, leaving viewers questioning their perception of reality.

However, the pacing of Abandoned might feel slow for some horror fans seeking jump scares or more immediate thrills. The movie takes its time building tension, focusing more on psychological terror than overt supernatural elements. That said, for those who appreciate a more cerebral, character-driven horror experience, it is an engaging watch.

Aside from the interruptions caused by Netflix’s new commercial-laden lower-tier payment plan, the film is a worthy addition to any Halloween viewing list. Its exploration of postpartum psychosis and the haunted house trope delivers enough eerie moments to make it an excellent pick for the 31 Days of Horror. Abandoned is unsettling in its ambiguity, making it a film that lingers long after the credits roll.