“It Comes at Night” is a film that is impossible to peg into one genre, and that is what makes it so effective.

Writer/director Trey Edward Shults has crafted a suspenseful piece of horror that is best viewed with as little advance knowledge as possible about the film. The less you know, the more the tension mounts as the film goes into some unexpected directions.

Without saying too much, the plot is basically about a man named Paul (Joel Edgerton), who is living in the woods trying to protect his family – a wife named Sarah (Carmen Ejogo) and a son named Travis (Kevin Harrison, Jr.) – from some unknown threat.

The family seems to have built a contained, sheltered existence, but their lives are tested when they take in a family (including Christopher Abbott and Riley Keough) desperate for shelter.

What horror are these families trying to escape? How does the dynamic shift with two families living in the same roof? 

These questions and others are revealed as the film slowly unfolds in a white-knuckle fashion that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats.

The cast helps make it all work, especially Edgerton, who continues to play key roles in interesting horror films.

Shults’ script and direction is wise to not reveal too much too soon, creating a mood that works quite well.

While watching “It Comes at Night,” I was reminded of a similar release from A24 studios last year, “The Witch.” That film seemed to cause a distinct divide between audiences and I suspect “It Comes at Night” will do the same. If you are willing to go with it, and allow the story to draw you in, “Night” should satisfy fans of the horror/suspense genre.

Starring: Joel Edgerton, Christopher Abbott

Directed by: Trey Edward Shults

Rating: R for violence, disturbing images, and language

Playing at: Regal Bowling Green Stadium 12, Regal Greenwood Mall Stadium 10, Highland Cinemas (Glasgow)

Grade: B