With the difficulty behind the task of finding Thanksgiving themes movies, an online search brought me to a completely unheard of indy film called “The House of Yes.” In a truly offbeat way, the 1997 piece, based on a play by Wendy MacLeod and directed by Mark Waters (“Mean Girls”), is something of a Thanksgiving based story, and although the film offers nothing in the way of festive cheer, the outcome is a shockingly great story.
With a cast featuring TV star Tori Spelling, Broadway talent Josh Hamilton, veteran actress Genevieve Bujold, then-rookie Freddie Prinze Jr, and the aptly nicknamed Queen of the Indies Parker Posey, “The House of Yes” is really unlike anything you’ve seen before on screen, perfectly embodying the spirit and reputation of an indie film.
Its dark, though not so heavy as to burden one with dastardly thoughts, and funny in a genuinely odd way. Wrapped together nicely, “The House of Yes” is an intriguing story that reflects its play-based roots will make you want to watch it again and again – though I’m really not sure why.
Set at a massive estate in the posh community of McLean Virginia, the story occurs on Thanksgiving Day 1983, with a placard reminding us its been exactly 20 years since the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The occupants of the mansion are the Pascal family, lead by the sullen matriarch (Bujold) and rounded out with daughter Jacqueline (Posey) and son Anthony (Prinze).
Jacqueline, nicknamed Jackie-O from her lifelong obsession with former First Lady Jackie Onassis, has just been released from a psychiatric hospital. The Pascals are planning for the return of Jackie-O’s twin brother Marty (Hamilton) who is returning home for Thanksgiving accompanied by his new fiancé Lesly (Spelling).
Understandable nerves are replaced with genuine fright as Marty and Lesly are forced to deal with Jackie-O, Anthony, and Mrs. Pascal. The close knit family proves that it doesn’t take kindly to the introduction of strangers.
Holiday based stories often employ the device of brining home a new love interest to meet the crazy family. In “The House of Yes” the Pascal family takes crazy to an entirely new level. Despite taking place on Thanksgiving day, there’s none of the usual seasonal fanfare. Flawless blankets of snow are replaced with the winds and heavy rains of a mid-Atlantic hurricane, and Jackie-O’s unhealthy obsession with her brother takes family bonding to the stratosphere of insanity.
With little in the way of effects, the talent takes “Yes” to the next level with its strong performances. Parker Posey dominates with her portrayal of the disturbed and highly amusing Jackie-O. Hamilton is the perfect counter to her outlandish character., bringing with it his own brand of wacky. Freddie Prinze Jr will leave you in tears as the awkward and flirtatious Anthony. Spelling and Bujold serve as great compliments and together, the group forms a perfect ensemble.
Chances are you’ve never heard of “The House of Yes.” I urge you to check it out. It’s a dark comedy that offers a taste of brilliant acting and production value and holds nothing back. Use the Thanksgiving backdrop as an excuse to pencil it into your collection. Place “The House of Yes” next to “Pieces of April” and “Planes, Trains & Automobiles” for exclusive November viewing.
by – Matt Christopher
