Is Incident in a Ghostland Based on a True Story? A Closer Look at the Psychological Horror!

‘Incident in a Ghostland’ (also known as ‘Ghostland’) is a 2018 psychological horror film that depicts a mother and her two daughters who are violently assaulted in their residence by intruders. Defying all expectations, they endure, although the recollection of the event transforms into a persistent nightmare.

The movie explores the profound impact of mental trauma through graphic portrayals of severe torture and its ensuing effects on victims. Although it lacks detailed specifics, might certain elements of the narrative be grounded in reality? Let us examine whether ‘Incident in a Ghostland’ is grounded on reality.

What is the Plot of ‘Incident in a Ghostland’?

In the movie, Beth and Vera embark on a road trip with their mother to a residence they have inherited from their aunt Clarisse. Tension exists between the sisters, as Vera disregards Beth’s aspirations as a horror writer. 

Upon their arrival at the new residence, they are assaulted by a colossal man and his associate; nevertheless, their mother, Pauline, defends them, rescuing the girls.

Sixteen years later, Beth has become a great author, although she remains tormented by the memories of that night. She receives a troubling call from Vera, who continues to reside in their childhood house, now a source of trauma. 

Vera has undergone a mental collapse, attributing her distress to Beth’s abandonment. Upon Beth’s visit, she finds Vera in a troubling condition, shackled to the bed and in a trance-like state.

As the night progresses, Beth recognizes that she and Vera remain mentally ensnared by the horror of their past and its repercussions on their lives. Vera sorrowfully discloses their mother’s demise, and both sisters remain trapped by the traumas they had endured, underscoring their persistent fight and confinement within the house.

Is ‘Incident in a Ghostland ‘ Inspired by Actual Events?

Incident in a Ghostland is a fictional film directed by French filmmaker Pascal Laugier, recognized for his unsettling imagery and graphic violence, and is not based on a genuine story. 

The film centers on two sisters and examines the psychological ramifications of trauma, highlighting their divergent coping strategies in response to severe abuse.

The picture is replete with malevolent imagery, showcasing an abandoned mansion, unsettling dolls, and foreboding messages, while utilizing astute visual methods to sustain a surreal enigma. 

Viewers are left contemplating the authenticity of each sister’s perspective, distinguishing reality from delusion, which mirrors Laugier’s penchant for ambiguous conclusions, influenced by series such as The Twilight Zone.

The narrative features a central character who is an aspiring writer, highlighting the topic of storytelling as a mechanism for overcoming pain. At the film’s conclusion, Beth affirms her identity as a writer, leaving unclear if she plans to pursue a writing career or is ensnared in an illusion of stardom. 

Incident in a Ghostland employs horror tropes innovatively to generate a distinctly disquieting experience while exploring topics of psychological trauma and escapism.

What is your perspective on the psychological elements present in ‘Incident in a Ghostland’? Do you think horror films may mirror real-life trauma? Convey your perspectives in the comments section below, and visit Crossover99 for more insight about the truthness of movies.