In the late '60s, the bookish Margaret marries Lovecraft-lover Harry against her better judgment. The couple has two daughters --- Sydney, born for the spotlight, and the brilliant but awkward Eunice, a natural writer and storyteller. But finances are tight, Margaret and Eunice are haunted by horrific dreams, and Harry starts acting strangely. He becomes obsessed with the construction of an elaborately crafted haunted house attraction, christened the Wandering Dark. The family tries to shield baby Noah from the house's faux horrors, but unbeknownst to them, he's being visited by a furry beast with glowing orange eyes --- the same ghastly being glimpsed by both his mother and sister. However, unlike them, Noah decides to let the creature in.