Corey Hawkins Starred in Upcoming Thriller "The Man in My Basement"
In a striking blend of psychological drama and horror, Corey Hawkins steps into the spotlight in the upcoming film The Man in My Basement, directed by Nadia Latif in her directorial debut. This highly-anticipated thriller is based on Walter Mosley’s acclaimed 2004 novel and is set to release on Hulu and in theaters this fall.
The Storyline
The film follows Charles Blakey, portrayed by Hawkins, a man grappling with the impending foreclosure of his ancestral home in Sag Harbor, New York. Described as "out of work, out of luck," Blakey’s situation becomes increasingly dire when he receives a mysterious knock at his door from Willem Dafoe. Dafoe plays Anniston Bennet, a businessman who presents an unsettling proposition: rent out Blakey’s basement for the summer in exchange for enough money to settle his debts.
However, what begins as a potential solution quickly spirals into a disturbing journey confronting deep-seated family traumas, psychological warfare, and moral dilemmas. The film highlights the themes of race and the haunting legacies that linger within Blakey’s home.
Themes and Tension
The official synopsis hints at a gripping narrative:
“Once Charles accepts [the offer], he finds himself led down a terrifying path that confronts his family’s ghosts and locks the men in a terrifying puzzle, at the heart of it race, the source of their traumas and the root of all evil.”
As the trailer suggests, Hawkins’ character descends into a web of psychological tension and existential dread, exacerbated by Dafoe’s eerie portrayal of the enigmatic tenant. The film promises to be more than just a drama; it combines elements of horror, pushing the boundaries of storytelling within the genre.
Notable Cast and Crew
Joining Hawkins and Dafoe in the cast are talented actors including Anna Diop, Jonathan Ajayi, Gershwyn Eustache Jnr., Pamela Nomvete, and Tamara Lawrance. The film’s production team features notable names such as Diane Houslin, John Giwa Amu, Dave Bishop, and Len Rowlands, ensuring a strong backing for the project.
Production Journey and Controversies
The journey to production faced unexpected challenges. Originally, Jonathan Majors was slated to star and executive produce the film through his production company. However, following serious legal issues in 2023 related to allegations from a former partner, Majors was removed from the project. He was found guilty of assault and battery charges in 2024 but avoided jail time with a sentence requiring him to undergo domestic violence counseling. Subsequently, Hawkins stepped in as both the lead actor and a key player in the film’s production.
Amidst these changes, Disney and ESPN’s Andscape took on the project, reaffirming their commitment to its vision and supporting innovation in storytelling.
Final Thoughts
The Man in My Basement promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of race and personal legacy, set against the backdrop of a psychological thriller. With its compelling premise and strong performances, particularly from Hawkins and Dafoe, the film is positioned to captivate audiences this fall.
For those eager to get a glimpse of this gripping narrative, the teaser trailer can be viewed here.
As the film delves deeply into complex themes of morality and heritage, it serves as a timely reminder of the narratives that define us and the shadows of our past that shape our futures.
