A Unique Blend of Horror and Humanity
Horror films often serve as metaphors for deeper societal or psychological issues. However, to truly qualify as a horror film, a movie must embrace the genre’s core elements—chaos, fear, and a descent into madness. “Bring Her Back” is no exception; it delivers an abundance of gore that could easily overwhelm even the most seasoned horror fan. Yet, beyond its graphic content, the film features a standout performance by Sally Hawkins, which may very well be the best of her career. This includes her acclaimed role in “The Shape of Water” and her vibrant portrayal of Poppy in “Happy-Go Lucky.”
Fans of Mike Leigh's work will recognize the effervescent nature of Poppy, but in “Bring Her Back,” Hawkins takes on the role of Laura, a foster mother whose cheerful demeanor masks something far more unsettling. Her character’s smile becomes a source of unease, making viewers question whether such behavior should be allowed in any society. The film's narrative is built around this duality, presenting a character who is both sympathetic and deeply disturbing.
Directorial Vision and Narrative Complexity
Directed by the twin brothers Michael and Danny Philippou, known for their YouTube content, “Bring Her Back” blends their signature humor with a more serious tone. While the film occasionally veers into the absurd, reminiscent of Wes Craven’s style, the twins manage to maintain a sense of tension that keeps the audience engaged. Their approach to storytelling involves withholding information, allowing the suspense to build gradually. This method proves effective, as the audience is left guessing about Laura’s true intentions throughout the film.
Laura is introduced as a caretaker for two children, Andy (Billy Barratt) and Piper (Sora Wong), who have experienced trauma. She also cares for a mute boy named Oliver, who has been silent since the drowning death of her daughter, Cathy. The swimming pool, once a place of joy, now stands empty and surrounded by dead leaves, symbolizing the loss and grief that haunt Laura. The fact that the directors are twins adds an interesting layer to the story, hinting at potential parallels between the characters and the filmmakers themselves.
Character Dynamics and Emotional Depth
While “Bring Her Back” contains moments of outright horror, the emotional core of the film lies in the experiences of Andy and Piper. After discovering their father’s body in the shower, they are taken in by social services, where Wendy (Sally-Anne Upton) vouches for Laura’s character. What Wendy doesn’t know is that Laura spends her free time watching Russian-language VHS tapes that depict occult rituals involving cannibalism and resurrected spirits. These scenes, while disturbing, add a unique dimension to the film, contrasting the chaos of the supernatural with the seemingly peaceful life in Laura’s home.
Sora Wong, making her feature debut, brings a genuine warmth to her role as Piper, a young girl dealing with her disability in a world that often overlooks her. Billy Barratt, known for his work in the UK series “Responsible Child,” delivers a compelling performance as Andy, a teenager grappling with anger and trauma. However, it is Sally Hawkins who truly steals the show. Her portrayal of Laura is intense and committed, making the character both fascinating and terrifying. Laura is not simply a villain; she is a complex figure whose actions raise more questions than answers.
Final Thoughts
“Bring Her Back” is a thought-provoking horror film that challenges viewers to confront the blurred lines between sanity and madness. With its strong performances, atmospheric setting, and intricate storytelling, the film offers a fresh take on the genre. It is available on HBO Max, and for those seeking a cinematic experience that balances horror with emotional depth, this film is definitely worth watching.
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