I went into this completely blind, aside from skimming a couple vague reviews here, the blurbs, and the ratings. I was really on the fence about watching it because the IMDB score is sitting at a 3.6/10, which is wild, but LB is at a 3/5 currently. Usually when there's a drastic difference like that, I err on the LB side of trusting a film and I'm really glad I did and opted to dive into this. Seeing a description on Prime in the blurb calling it "Lynchian" really sealed it, though I'm hesitant when that term is thrown around.
It makes me really sad when movies like this don't get the ratings they deserve, honestly. I really thought this was exceptional and highly unique, and it stood out especially in a sea of mainstream current cinema that's just nothing special. I truly think this is something special.
I'm not going to give away plot points here, because I think it's important to go into this one blind like I did, or you're going to ruin it for yourself. Everything does come around full circle within the film.
This was filmed beautifully and artistically, and I would be willing to pretty much call it arthouse horror. There's multiple parts that are uncomfortable to witness, and for a large amount of the movie you're just as confused as the main character. However that's part of the beauty of it. Giving in to not knowing what's going on with her, and trying to piece together the bits and pieces you get to form a coherent narrative.
There's not a ton of dialogue, and what there is sometimes slants a bit philosophical in nature, which fits perfectly here and is to be expected. There's a fair amount of tension and anxiety because they REALLY impactfully sold the empathetic feeling of anxiety we experience connected with the main characters confusion, and an unreliable narrator leading you through her seemingly lucid moments, just as you're witness and along for the ride for her panic, trauma, turmoil, and just general loss of self. It's beautifully put to screen with an absolutely amazing array of sound effects and backing tracks, many of which rely on electrical sounds, white noise, hums, etc. I couldn't think of anything I would change to improve it and I'm highly impressed with how well conveyed every bit of that is.
Gorgeous cinematography all around, with shifting visuals at many times that are skillfully created. The acting is absolutely superb. There's not a dead or dull moment throughout.
I don't think this is a film for everyone, though. It's a very slow burn and it really is arthouse, it requires you to submit yourself to letting go of a steady and well boxed in narrative and allow yourself to explore the ideas of what you might be seeing and along on the ride for. It requires you to give in to the film in a way many movies do not. There's a number of times throughout that beg you to consider consciousness and self, the concept of I and what that ultimately means, and your answers in relation to the main character doing the same. It's actually very cerebral and deep horror if you're empathetic enough. You do get resolution if you pay attention and allow yourself to be immersed. It's not left open ended, and it does make sense.
I would highly recommend this to anyone who likes deeper films that require attention and rumination, and I would recommend a second watch after you learn the plot. I would even recommend this if you just want to watch something well crafted, but I think the low reviews are from people who likely either had incorrect expectations, aren't fans of slow and contemplative film, or don't like this kind of horror. I can't see any other reason not to like this. And yes, it'll probably be your thing if you love Lynch.
