‘The Woman in the Yard’ Opens to Divided Reviews and Praise for Danielle Deadwyler

Jaume Collet-Serra’s psychological horror film debuts with acclaim for its visuals and performances but criticism for its muddled narrative and heavy-handed themes.

The film, released on March 28, 2025, explores grief and mental health through the story of a widow, Ramona, portrayed by Danielle Deadwyler, who encounters a mysterious veiled woman in her yard.
Critics have widely praised Deadwyler’s performance for its emotional depth, with her portrayal anchoring the film’s exploration of trauma and loss.
The movie's visual style, particularly its use of light and shadow by cinematographer Pawel Pogorzelski, has been highlighted as a major strength, creating a haunting atmosphere.
Criticism has centered on the film's narrative, which some reviewers found inconsistent and overburdened by heavy-handed metaphors and supernatural elements that clash with its serious themes.
The ambiguous ending has sparked differing interpretations, with some seeing it as a metaphorical confrontation with grief, while others view it as overly bleak and unresolved.

The Hollywood Reporter