The Elderly is a 2022 Spanish horror film about an old man’s falls into dementia after his wife’s suicide and the ensuing paranormal events.
Directed by Raúl Cerezo and Fernando González Gómez from a screenplay co-written with Javier Trigales. Produced by Mamen Espinosa and José Luis Rancaño. Executive produced by Juan Barquín and Helion Ramalho.
The La Dalia Films-Persons Films production stars Paula Gallego, Irene Anula, Carmen Ibeas, Zorion Eguileor, Gustavo Salmerón, Josele Román and Juan Acedo.
Release:
The Elderly had its world premiere at the 2022 Fantasia International Film Festival before being shown at the Sitges and Fantastic festivals.
In the US, The Elderly will be released theatrically in select locations by Dark Star Pictures on October 13, 2023. Blu-ray and VOD releases will follow on October 31, 2023.
Fantasia blurb:
“An octogenarian named Manuel (Zorion Eguileor) falls into a state of dementia after the sudden suicide of his wife, sparking a series of paranormal events that will put his family’s lives at risk. Starting as a grounded drama exploring the indignities of old age, The Elderly gradually snaps off one guardrail after another, building to a crescendo of sheer terror with imagery that can never be unseen.
This chilling new vision in Spanish horror from directors Raúl Cerezo and Fernando González Gómez (The Passenger) features a heart-stopping lead performance from Eguileor (All the Moons, The Platform).”
Reviews:
“While it technically does culminate in an unexpected and exciting finish, the slow burn getting there never manages to turn up the heat. It’s a technically well-made film emphasizing atmosphere and style, but the scares aren’t so effective, and its mysteries remain mostly inaccessible until the final moments.” 2.5 out of 5, Bloody Disgusting
“The Elderly breaks taboos related to old age in cinema and provokes reflections on the treatment of elders in our society with the help of flawless cinematography, a well-crafted script and a choice of outstanding actors. You will come out shaken.” 3.5 out of 5, Horror Québec
“A lot of horror films have trouble making the jump from one family’s problems to something much bigger, and this one mostly connects on that big swing […] The Elderly has the gloss of a top-tier horror movie, but never really decides on a heart.” Jay’s Movie Blog
Teaser trailer:
Trailer:
Filming locations:
Madrid, Spain
Original title:
Viejos
