Horror Movie Review: The Haunting of the Tower of London (2022)

A mix of historical horror and medieval fantasy, The Haunting of the Tower of London (also known as The Haunting of the Bloody Tower) comes from writer/director Charlie Steeds.

Loosely based on the true story of the disappearances of prince Edward and Richard in 1483. Locked in the Tower of London following the death of Edward IV, by his brother the Duke of Gloucester aka Richard III, for their own protection. They were never seen alive again.

It is a fascinating piece of British history that still remains a mystery to this day and is used as inspiration for this supernatural horror story. When the corpses of the two missing princes are discovered, the Duke of Gloucester and future Richard III (Tim Cartwright) demands an investigation into who is responsible. Which involves a lot of pain and suffering, something that delights the torturer, Solomon, who can barely hide his glee. A small role for actor James Swanton, his reaction to being told to torture people is the accidental funniest moment in the movie.

Some within the castle suspect that the Duke is responsible and attempting to deflect suspicions while he awaits his brother’s death. Something that prompts Mistress Blythe (Emma Spurgin Hussey) to seek out Henry Pedrick (Richard Rowden) who is said to speak to the dead.

Something we see him do as a way to help people move on from their loss. Although, one spirit warns him to stay away from the tower of London as it is a place of death.

If you’re watching The Haunting of the Tower of London for historical accuracy or well-designed medieval imagery, you’re watching the wrong film. None of this is what this movie does well. Yet, thanks to an immense cast and real passion for the project, The Haunting of the Tower of London turns out to be a good supernatural horror. One with a lot of imagination and a willingness to push the boundaries of what you might expect in this kind of horror.

Few would expect a movie like this to be as visually disturbing and gory as it is. Elements that not only help enhance the horror, but make the more subtle moments more threatening. These are not ‘bump in the night’ ghosts and the film is all the better for it. In fact, keeping with the tone of the era, the movie is incredibly harsh and hard right up to the very end. There were few happy endings for those that lived within this time, something the movie reflects.

What makes it all so much more impressive is that few would expect this level of quality from a movie called The Haunting of the Tower of London. Check this one out, you might find yourself pleasantly surprised.