The Thing on the Doorstep

Main Plot

"The Thing on the Doorstep," directed by Tom Gliserman, is a horror film adaptation of H.P. Lovecraft's short story. The plot centers on a troubled friendship between two men, Edward Derby and Daniel Upton. Edward, a sensitive and imaginative individual, becomes increasingly entangled with a mysterious and sinister woman named Asenath Waite. As their relationship deepens, Edward's behavior grows erratic and disturbing, leading Daniel to suspect that dark, supernatural forces are at play. Asenath's influence over Edward appears to be more than mere manipulation, hinting at ancient, otherworldly powers. Daniel's concern for his friend drives him to uncover the truth, culminating in a chilling confrontation that blurs the line between reality and the occult. The film explores themes of identity, possession, and the terrifying consequences of delving into forbidden knowledge.

Characters

• David Bunce is a minor character, a friend of the protagonist, who provides crucial background information and context about the protagonist's troubled relationship with his wife.
• Rob Dalton is a minor character, a friend of protagonist Daniel Upton, who provides crucial background information about the sinister events surrounding Edward Derby and his mysterious wife, Asenath.
• Susan Cicarelli-Caputo portrays Asenath Waite, a sinister woman involved in dark occult practices, manipulating her husband, Edward Derby, to achieve her malevolent goals.

Ending Explained

"The Thing on the Doorstep," directed by Tom Gliserman, concludes with a chilling and tragic resolution that encapsulates the film's themes of possession and identity. The story centers around Daniel Upton and his friend Edward Derby, who becomes entangled with the enigmatic and sinister Asenath Waite. Asenath, possessing dark, arcane knowledge, gradually exerts a malevolent influence over Edward, ultimately revealing her ability to transfer her consciousness into other bodies. In the climax, Daniel discovers that Asenath has been using her powers to inhabit Edward's body, leaving Edward's consciousness trapped and helpless. The true horror is unveiled when Daniel finds Edward's lifeless body at his doorstep, realizing that Asenath, now in Edward's form, has been manipulating events all along. In a desperate attempt to end the cycle of possession, Daniel takes drastic measures, leading to a confrontation that results in the death of both Edward and Asenath. The film concludes with Daniel grappling with the psychological and moral ramifications of his actions, leaving viewers with a haunting reflection on the loss of identity and the boundaries of the human soul.