Harrison Ford, a legend known for heroic characters, is gaining attention on Netflix with his rare turn in a thriller that stands out as his most prominent Harrison Ford horror movie. Ford’s filmography crosses many genres, but his appearances in horror are surprisingly few, making this recent streaming resurgence noteworthy for long-time fans and newcomers alike.
Ford Breaks the Mold in a Supernatural Thriller
While Harrison Ford’s enduring legacy is built on beloved roles like Han Solo from “Star Wars” and Indiana Jones, he rarely ventures into the territory of dark psychological drama or horror. His second foray into the genre, after the 1977’s “The Possessed,” arrives in the form of the 2000 film “What Lies Beneath,” now available on Netflix as of December 1st. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, “What Lies Beneath” pairs Ford with Michelle Pfeiffer as Dr. Norman Spencer and Claire Spencer, a couple who find themselves at the center of a chilling mystery involving their supposedly haunted lakeside home.
As the plot unfolds, Claire Spencer, played by Michelle Pfeiffer, becomes convinced that a female apparition is present in their home, raising suspicions and uncovering layers of secrets that threaten the stability of the couple’s relationship. The slow build of unease and suspicion creates a tense psychological landscape, propelling the viewer toward a suspense-filled climax.
Portraying the Unexpected: Ford’s Transformation into a Villain
Known globally for his heroism on screen, Harrison Ford brings an unexpected depth to his character in “What Lies Beneath.” Departing from his usual virtuous personas, Ford embodies Dr. Norman Spencer with a blend of warmth and calculated deception, weaving a complex portrait that challenges his well-established iconography. Throughout the film, Ford’s Norman presents as a caring husband, yet hints of entitlement and narcissism undercut his facade, creating an undercurrent of unease. His nuanced performance fuels the film’s suspense, culminating in a harrowing revelation that flips audience expectations.
there comes a point when you’ve exhausted your opportunities playing good guys.
—Harrison Ford, Empire
saw there was an opportunity to play a character different from what the audience’s expectation was. A chance to take their crude experience of me — of my iconography, if you will — and turn it on its ear at an appropriate juncture in the film to be useful to the process of telling the story.
—Harrison Ford, Empire
This shift was embraced by Ford as a means to surprise audiences and demonstrate his range. The dynamic between Ford and Michelle Pfeiffer anchors the film, heightening its tension and emotional stakes. Their performances together lead to one of the movie’s most iconic and terrifying scenes, particularly in the bathtub sequence, considered a standout moment in Ford’s acting career.
What Lies Beneath: An Overlooked Gem Finds New Life
When Robert Zemeckis crafted “What Lies Beneath,” he leaned into Hitchcockian suspense, creating a film that is as psychological as it is supernatural. Despite the combined talents of Ford and Pfeiffer, and the director’s pedigree, the film has often been labeled an underrated entry both in Ford’s career and the horror-thriller genre. The meticulous buildup of tension, paired with clever storytelling and a shocking twist, underscores why the movie is worthy of renewed attention. Now that “What Lies Beneath” is streaming on Netflix, it offers a fresh opportunity for audiences to rediscover or enjoy for the first time the chilling story that reveals new facets of Ford’s abilities and onscreen presence.
Netflix Expands Its Lineup for December
“What Lies Beneath” launches amidst a slate of new arrivals on Netflix. This December, the platform brings an assortment of popular films to its viewers, joining other recognized titles including “A League of Their Own,” “Downton Abbey,” “Pulp Fiction,” and “The Wolf of Wall Street.” Later this month, audiences can look forward to classics such as “Forrest Gump” beginning December 4th, the mystery sequel
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery”
on December 12th, and “The Talented Mr. Ripley” from December 13th. This roster broadens the choices for fans of drama, suspense, and thrillers alike.
The Enduring Impact of Ford’s Only Mainstream Horror Role
Harrison Ford’s venture into the horror thriller genre remains a rare and fascinating chapter in his storied career. As streaming platforms like Netflix reintroduce older films to contemporary audiences, “What Lies Beneath” stands as one of Ford’s most significant departures from his iconic hero roles. The film not only showcases his versatility, but also highlights director Robert Zemeckis’ skill in weaving suspense and uncertainty. With renewed attention, Ford’s chilling performance may prompt a fresh perspective on his body of work and inspire wider appreciation for the psychological intensity he brought to the screen in this underrated classic.
