There are many layers of horror to The Rental. At its surface, it warns of the dangers of using ‘generic vacation rental service.’ While the major undercurrent is the relationship dynamics between our two main couples, both of these themes feel like red herrings by the time the third act reaches its decidedly slashier finale. From a visual standpoint, this film goes hard with the fog. I understand that this is the Pacific North West coast, however, it would be nice to see the actual coastline from time to time as well. Fog machines notwithstanding, the casting is an absolute dream. In intimate moments between characters, so much charm and genuine chemistry fills the screen, which adds heaps and bounds in terms of believability and cohesion. Franco has weaved a truly impressive narrative.
