Movie Review Blog: “The Woman in the Yard” (2025) – A Haunting Exploration of Grief and Mental Illness




Trailer provided by Universal Pictures via Youtube

             

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

Release Date: March 28, 2025

Genre: Psychological Horror, Drama

Director: Jaume Collet-Serra

Screenwriter: Sam Stefanak

Main Cast: Danielle Deadwyler, Okwui Okpokwasili, Peyton Jackson, Estella Kahiha, Russell Hornsby

Runtime: 88 minutes

Production Companies: Blumhouse Productions, Universal Pictures

Box Office: $22 million

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 75% Critics, 73% Audience

IMDb Rating: 6.5/10





Introduction



“The Woman in the Yard” is a 2025 psychological horror film directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, known for his work on “Orphan” and “The Shallows.” Written by first-time screenwriter Sam Stefanak, the film delves into the harrowing journey of a grieving mother confronting her inner demons. While the film offers a compelling performance by Danielle Deadwyler and atmospheric visuals, it grapples with the challenges of portraying mental illness within the horror genre.





Plot Overview



Set in a remote rural farmhouse, the story follows Ramona (Danielle Deadwyler), a mother recovering from a car accident that claimed the life of her husband, David (Russell Hornsby). Physically injured and emotionally devastated, Ramona struggles to care for her two children: 14-year-old Taylor (Peyton Jackson) and 6-year-old Annie (Estella Kahiha). Their isolated existence is disrupted when a mysterious woman (Okwui Okpokwasili) appears in their yard, delivering ominous warnings and unsettling messages. As the woman inches closer to their home, Ramona’s grip on reality begins to unravel, revealing deeper psychological turmoil. 





Themes and Symbolism



The film explores themes of grief, depression, and the manifestation of inner demons. The mysterious woman serves as a physical embodiment of Ramona’s suicidal ideation, gradually encroaching upon her consciousness. This allegorical representation is reminiscent of other trauma-centered horror films, such as “The Babadook,” where supernatural elements mirror the protagonist’s mental state. 


However, the film’s portrayal of mental illness has sparked controversy. Critics argue that equating depression with a violent external force perpetuates harmful stereotypes. Vulture noted that the film’s treatment of sensitive topics like mental illness and suicide comes across as thoughtless and problematic, casting Ramona in a negative light. 





Performances



Danielle Deadwyler delivers a powerful performance as Ramona, capturing the character’s vulnerability and descent into despair. Her portrayal adds depth to the narrative, anchoring the film’s emotional core. Okwui Okpokwasili’s portrayal of the enigmatic woman is haunting, conveying menace through minimal dialogue and eerie presence. The child actors, Peyton Jackson and Estella Kahiha, provide compelling performances, portraying the confusion and fear experienced by children in a fractured family dynamic.





Cinematography and Direction



Director Jaume Collet-Serra employs a minimalist approach, utilizing natural lighting and static shots to create a sense of unease. The film’s use of daylight horror, where unsettling events occur in broad daylight, subverts traditional horror tropes and enhances the surreal atmosphere. Cinematographer Pawel Pogorzelski’s work contributes to the film’s eerie aesthetic, capturing the isolation of the rural setting. 





Critical Reception



“The Woman in the Yard” has received mixed reviews from critics. RogerEbert.com highlighted the film’s tension and the revelation of secrets that shift the narrative in unexpected directions.  However, some critics found the film’s execution lacking. The Guardian described it as a pared-back horror that loses coherence in its final act, despite strong performances and atmospheric elements. 


Audience reactions have also been divided. While some viewers appreciate the film’s exploration of grief and mental health, others criticize its pacing and the handling of sensitive themes. The film’s ambiguous ending has sparked discussions about its interpretation and the effectiveness of its allegorical elements.





Conclusion



“The Woman in the Yard” attempts to navigate the complex terrain of psychological horror, offering a meditation on grief and the manifestations of mental illness. While the film benefits from strong performances and atmospheric direction, it struggles with the delicate balance required to portray mental health issues responsibly within the horror genre. The film’s allegorical approach may resonate with some viewers, but its execution leaves room for improvement.




Final Verdict: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

A haunting exploration of grief and mental illness that, despite its atmospheric strengths and compelling performances, falters in its portrayal of sensitive themes.