Appearing unexpectedly at the front door of the Peterson family, recently discharged soldier David (Dan Stevens) says he has a final message from their recently deceased son, Caleb, with whom he says he served.
Grieving over Caleb's tragic death in combat, the Petersons openly welcome David into their home.
Polite
and resourceful, David epitomises the perfect house guest, filling the gap in the family left by Caleb and making himself indispensable in their lives and part of the family.
He is a source of comfort for Caleb's mum (Sheila Kelley), a drinking buddy for liquor-loving dad Spencer (Leland Orser), and a mentor and advocate for bullied teenager Luke (Brendan Meyer).
He befriends rebellious daughter Anna (Maika Monroe) who at first takes more than a liking to the handsome soldier, but subsequently becomes suspicious and starts inquiring into his past.
Directed by Adam Wingard (You're Next, A Horrible Way to Die) The Guest first plays out as a tense psychological thriller but, towards the end, descends into gory horror, with bits of humour.
