Absentia is very creepy, non-formulaic and more grounded in relatable personalities than the usual horror film filled with hottie victims and other stereotypes.

Suffers a bit from a low budget and underwhelming performances, but manages to take well-worn territory and find new spins on them to end up in an unexpected destination.

...it's pretty clear that Flanagan makes movies I want to watch...

Once you ease past the film's lack of polish, you find yourself drawn in. First, by the characters. And later, by the deeply sinister and horrible situation in which they find themselves snared.