The House with a Clock in Its Walls

Ten-year-old Lewis Barnavelt moves into a creaking mansion to live with his eccentric Uncle Jonathan after his parents die. The house itself seems alive, its walls rattle with a ticking that echoes through every room. Lewis soon learns that Jonathan hides a secret: he is a warlock who wields magic as part of a long line of spellcasters. Beneath the mansion's charming oddities lies something darker, a force that could threaten those inside and beyond the walls. AsLewis experiments with tricks, he and Jonathan stumble into a world of enchantments and dangers, and they must protect the house from a looming magical threat. That path forces Lewis to test trust, bravery, and the power of unlikely friendship and resilience.

Directed by Eli Roth, this 2018 fantasy horror adapts John Bellairs' 1973 novel The House with a Clock in Its Walls for a modern family audience. The screenplay is by Eric Kripke, with production by Amblin and Paramount Pictures globally.

The film earned $131,523,093 worldwide, well above its $42,000,000 budget, signaling a solid return for a fantasy horror aimed at families. It performed strongly in several international markets and resonated with home audiences. Critics noted appeal across ages and cultures.

The movie stands out for blending slapstick humor with spooky atmosphere, anchored by Jack Black as the wry uncle and Cate Blanchett as a magnetic rival warlock. The clockwork mansion visuals and the ticking motif linger in viewers' memories. Its blend of humor and danger helped it become a favorite.

Critics applauded its energetic tone and strong performances, though some noted it treads a fine line between spooky thrills and family-friendly comedy. The film explores grief, belonging, and courage as Lewis forms a bond with his uncle and a list of new allies. Coming of age arcs resonate with audiences.