“Winchester,” a horror movie based on historical events set in the year 1906, was released on Friday, Feb. 2.

The film is set in San Jose, California where the Winchester Mystery House still remains. The mansion displays interesting architecture, while the characters use old rhetoric and wear apparel fitting the time period of the early 1900s. The appearance of the setting is an accurate representation of the era.

At first the plot may seem cliché and corny. Although, it inspires the audience to want to research more about past events, such as the earthquake in San Jose and the Winchester mansion itself.

Despite the limited budget of $3,500,000, the film conveys a true feeling of the past and is well directed by brothers Michael and Peter Spierig. The role of Sarah Winchester is portrayed by award-winning actor Helen Mirren.

Eric Price, a laudanum addict and doctor, visits the Winchester mansion as he is offered a job by businessman Gates. The job consists of Price examining Sarah Winchester (owner of the Winchester mansion) to issue her to a mental hospital so Gates could get a hold of the Winchester house shares.

As Price spends more time in the mansion, he stumbles upon Sarah’s niece, Marian, and her younger son, Henry.

The thriller progresses as Sarah investigates into the historic meaning of the ghosts who wander around the mansion.

The family and Price encounter various interactions with the ghosts. One of the most dangerous ghosts is the brother of two confederate soldiers who were killed in the Civil War through the use of Winchester rifles.

As “Winchester” contains references to historical events and has a semi-confusing plot, this horror film targets an older audience.

Overall, “Winchester” provides a thrilling experience by turning these historical events into a terrifying film. Even though the film is receiving an average rating, it has an interesting plot as well as strong actors who illustrate the early 1900s well.