Insidious: The Last Key hit theaters on Jan. 5 with high expectations from returning horror movie fans. With three Insidious movies released before the newest addition to the chain, fans were expecting it to be better than the last. While the expectations were high, overall the movie received mixed reviews.

It begins with a somber back story of main character Elise Rainier, played by actress Lin Shaye. The movie revolves around Rainier’s struggle to resolve unaddressed emotions from her childhood as she aims to help the man living in her childhood home. Shaye’s acting is one of the better parts of the movie and channeled real emotions from true fright to courage to sadness.

The plot itself is not terrible. The idea behind it is interesting. However, it is not executed in the best way possible. For example, the climax of the movie is a complete disappointment. Instead of having viewers on the edge of their seats, the climax merely seems to pass by, one minute exciting and the next instantly resolved. The climax is probably the most upsetting part of the movie.

As for the horror aspect of the movie, not too many viewers will be impressed. The jump-scares are well received, but everything else is underwhelming. The acting is subpar, but seems worse due to the attempt to add corny humor and dry jokes. While some jokes are genuinely funny, most are merely dry and awkward.

Overall this horror movie does not meet the general expectations that were set prior to its release. Receiving a six out of ten on IMDb and a low evaluation of 28% on Rotten Tomatoes, the movie is evidently not one to garner any awards any time soon.

The movie may be fun for horror beginners, however it seems to be more drama than horror for those used to curling up in their seats full of fear.