Behind the Scenes of The Vord: Filming at Lilac House and My Role as the Evil Grandma

An indie film called The Vord is gaining attention right now on Tubi and is also available to watch for free with ads on Amazon. This moody psychological thriller explores the battle between ancient forces of good and evil for the possession of a modern woman’s soul. What makes this film especially exciting is that parts of it were filmed at the historic Lilac House. Even more intriguing, the role of the evil Grandma was played by Kathy, who also appears in some of the early scenes with her innocent grandchild by the fireplace.

This post takes you behind the scenes of The Vord, sharing details about the filming at Lilac House, the challenges of shooting in its unique spaces, and what it was like to step into the role of the sinister Grandma.

The Unique Setting of Lilac House

Lilac House is not just a beautiful historic home; it has an atmosphere that perfectly suits a psychological thriller. The filmmakers chose this location because of its authentic, slightly eerie charm. The house’s century-old architecture and partially excavated rocky basement add a raw, unsettling feeling that enhances the film’s mood.

The basement, in particular, plays a key role in some of the most frightening scenes. It features steep, uneven stairs that descend into a dimly lit, rocky space. This setting creates a natural tension and sense of danger that no studio set could replicate. However, the stairs are tricky to navigate, so the cast and crew had to be very careful during filming to avoid accidents.

Playing the Evil Grandma

Kathy’s role as the evil Grandma is a highlight of the film. She brings a chilling presence that contrasts sharply with the innocence of her grandchild, who appears with her in the opening scenes by the fireplace. This juxtaposition sets the tone for the psychological battle that unfolds.

Portraying such a dark character was a unique challenge. Kathy had to balance subtle menace with moments of quiet control, making the Grandma’s evil feel both believable and deeply unsettling. The role required careful attention to body language and facial expressions, especially in close-up shots that capture the character’s sinister intentions without overt dialogue. For Kathy, getting to appear as her own ghost, with professional make-up that made her appear, well, dead.... was eery and also great fun!

Filming Challenges and Experiences

Shooting at Lilac House was not without its difficulties. The location brought a level of authenticity that elevated the film. The natural textures of the stone walls, the flickering fireplace, and the aged woodwork in the upstairs bedroom under the eaves all contributed to the immersive experience. The cast and crew remarked on how the house itself seemed to influence their performances, adding a layer of realism to the story.

Why The Vord Stands Out

The Vord is more than just a thriller; it explores timeless themes of good versus evil through a modern lens. The film’s focus on the soul’s vulnerability and the passage of time gives it depth beyond typical genre fare. The use of Lilac House as a filming location strengthens this theme by grounding the story in a place with its own history and character.

For viewers, the film offers a gripping narrative combined with striking visuals. The scenes in Lilac House, especially the basement sequences, create a palpable tension that keeps audiences on edge. Kathy’s performance as the evil Grandma adds a memorable and haunting element that lingers after the credits roll.

How to Watch and What to Expect

If you want to see Lilac House in its film debut and experience The Vord firsthand, the trailer is available on YouTube: Watch the trailer. The full film streams free with ads on Amazon and Tubi, making it accessible to a wide audience.

Expect a slow-building, atmospheric thriller that relies on mood and character rather than jump scares. The film’s pacing allows viewers to absorb the unsettling environment and the psychological complexity of the characters. It’s a great pick for fans of indie films who appreciate thoughtful storytelling and unique settings.