Ready or Not

On the eve of her wedding, Grace, played by Samara Weaving, is welcomed into the sprawling Le Domas estate, where wealth meets whimsy and danger lurks behind every chandelier. The family insists she participate in a midnight ritual that begins as a quirky tradition but quickly hints at something far more deadly. What starts as a strange amusement escalates into a desperate struggle as Grace navigates a labyrinth of locked doors, hidden corridors, and suspicious relatives who treat the game as a matter of life and death. The tension blends with dry humor and sharp pop culture jabs, as the uneasy humor gives way to real dread. In this night of secrets, the price of belonging is laid bare.

Directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, Ready or Not comes from the horror collective Radio Silence. It was released in 2019 by Fox Searchlight and is based on an original screenplay by Guy Busick and R. Christopher Murphy.

The movie performed solidly at the box office, earning more than its modest budget and becoming a standout success for fans of horror comedies. It benefited from a strong word of mouth following its festival run and brisk, sharp marketing.

Critics widely praised its brisk pacing, inventive set pieces, and Samara Weaving's breakout performance. The film sharpens a satire of wealth and privilege while delivering tense horror and sharp humor that keep the audience guessing and laughing in equal measure. The themes of belonging and deception resonate, with audiences noting the craftsmanship.

Since its release, Ready or Not has become a touchstone for late 2010s horror comedies, sparking conversations about class and family dynamics and generating memorable moments that circulate in pop culture. It cropped up in memes, interviews, and party film nights, with Samara Weaving's performance often singled out. Its punchy tone has influenced later genre offerings.