Nicolas Cage’s distinctive film, Color Out of Space, became available on Hulu on September 10, providing audiences with access to one of his most unusual and compelling works. Directed by Richard Stanley and based on the story by horror icon H.P. Lovecraft, the film explores a family’s terrifying ordeal with an otherworldly force after a meteorite crashes near their new home.
A Unique Science Fiction Horror Story Inspired by Lovecraft’s Work
In Color Out of Space, the Gardner family relocates to a rural house once owned by Nathan Gardner’s father, seeking a fresh start away from city life. Theresa Gardner, Nathan’s wife, is struggling emotionally, and their children accompany them on this new chapter. However, their plans quickly unravel when a meteorite crashes in their front yard, introducing a mutant extraterrestrial organism that begins invading their minds and bodies.
“After a meteorite lands in the front yard of their farm, Nathan Gardner and his family find themselves battling a mutant extraterrestrial organism that infects their minds and bodies, transforming their quiet rural life into a technicolor nightmare.”
—Rotten Tomatoes
The film’s plot deviates significantly from Lovecraft’s original short story, which is nearly a century old and features fewer character-driven elements. Richard Stanley’s adaptation prioritizes strong character development while blending body horror with psychedelic sci-fi visuals, presenting a harrowing tale of a family’s descent under a cosmic threat.
The Film’s Initial Reception and Critical Acclaim
Despite a modest box office return of just $1 million against a $12 million budget, Color Out of Space earned strong critical praise. It won Best Horror Film at Fantastic Fest in 2019 and holds an 86% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting the respect it gained from reviewers. The audience score stands slightly lower at 82%, still indicating a positive reception. This success highlights the film as Richard Stanley’s highest-rated work to date on the platform.
Memorable Characters and Intense Visual Style Support the Horror
Unlike the original Lovecraft story, Stanley’s film centers around the Gardner family’s unity and trauma as they confront the alien menace. The blend of unsettling body horror and vivid, psychedelic effects creates a disturbing atmosphere that complements the family’s transformation throughout the film. The story’s tension builds through their shared ordeal, making it a deeply emotional experience rather than just a spectacle.
The cast features Nicolas Cage as Nathan Gardner, the family patriarch, alongside Joely Richardson portraying Theresa Gardner. Their daughter, Lavinia Gardner, is played by Madeleine Arthur, while Elliot Knight appears as Ward Phillips, contributing to the film’s dynamic character ensemble.
The Ongoing Impact of Color Out of Space in Horror Cinema
Color Out of Space marks a significant entry in Nicolas Cage’s filmography, showcasing his willingness to embrace experimental and intense roles. Its availability on Hulu offers horror fans and general audiences alike a chance to explore a film that combines Lovecraftian themes with a fresh cinematic approach. Given the strong critical feedback and distinctive storytelling, the film is poised to maintain its status as a cult favorite among cosmic horror enthusiasts and beyond.
