Host (2020)

What to Expect

We’re all well aware that the worldwide pandemic and subsequent lockdown mark a momentous era, and it’s only fitting that films from this year reflect our collective state of isolation and panic. Host, a Shudder original, attempted to capture a paranormal version of our newfound fears.

A group of friends join a video call while quarantined to hold a virtual seance in an attempt to connect to the spirit world. Mischievous Jemma complains of a great weight on her neck, and proceeds to tell a story about a boy she went to school with who died. She convinces her friends that he is coming through to her, but after the medium guiding them through the seance drops the call, Jemma reveals that she lied as a prank to spice things up. Her frivolous attitude toward the seance allows a malevolent spirit to come through, making its way through each of the friends’ homes - much like your friend who just can’t bring themselves to wear a mask spreads invisible disease.