A Deeply Disturbing Portrait of Grief in Gory Horror: “Bring Her Back”
Introduction to the Uncanny
As you dive into "Bring Her Back," prepare yourself for a uniquely unsettling experience. This horror film offers a bold exploration of grief, trauma, and the dark corners of childhood vulnerability. Directed by the Australian duo Michael and Danny Philippou, celebrated for their earlier work in "Talk to Me," this latest offering is both a chilling narrative and a gut-wrenching commentary on parental failures—especially the notorious lapses of child protective services.
The Quirky Foster Mother
Laura, played by the incredibly talented Sally Hawkins, introduces herself with an unsettling cheerfulness. “I’m a bit of a weirdo,” she jovially states to newly orphaned siblings Andy and Piper. Infused with dark humor, her initial interaction foreshadows the bizarre and horrific events that will unfold.
This seemingly innocuous line takes on more sinister implications as she showcases her non-sighted daughter’s new pet, an unexpected twist that reveals disturbing truths about Laura’s character. The taxidermy hints at her eccentricity, but it barely scratches the surface of what’s to come.
A New Nightmare Unfolds
Stripped of security, the film dives headlong into the harsh realities faced by the protagonists. Following the sudden death of their father, the bewildered siblings find themselves in Laura’s isolated home. Here, strange occurrences abound, and the suspense thickens as they discover Olly—a mute young boy whose unsettling presence adds yet another layer of intrigue.
If you’re wary of graphic gore, tread carefully. The film doesn’t shy away from overtly gory imagery, which is complemented by exceptional sound design, effectively immersing the audience in its grotesque atmosphere.
Complexity of Character
Unlike many typical horror narratives that reduce blind characters to mere tropes, Piper (portrayed by newcomer Sora Wong) emerges as a multidimensional character. Her struggle for independence subtly showcases her refusal to rely on her cane, revealing her fierce desire to be seen as more than just her disability.
Meanwhile, Andy (acclaimed actor Billy Barratt) navigates his role as protector, grappling with residual trauma while trying to meet his sister’s needs. The bond between the siblings adds a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos, making their plight all the more heart-wrenching.
The Eerie Atmosphere and Tension
The film crafts its tension through Laura’s increasingly bizarre behavior. One particularly memorable scene has her encouraging Andy to kiss his deceased father—a shocking moment that epitomizes the film’s unpredictable nature. This unpredictability keeps the audience at the edge of their seats, as they piece together Laura’s sinister intentions.
Laura’s obsession with Piper, driven by her own tragic past, transforms into a strange mixture of concern and mania. Hawkins plays the character with a mixture of menacing warmth, allowing viewers to glimpse her fragility beneath the surface.
Pacing and Narrative Flow
Despite its engaging premise and strong performances, "Bring Her Back" struggles to deliver a fully satisfying emotional arc. While the film excels in crafting unexpected scares and innovative storytelling, it falters in character development, particularly with Piper, who remains somewhat underexplored.
Final Thoughts
In summary, "Bring Her Back" is a daring contender in the horror genre, showcasing the intertwining themes of loss and unsettling transformations. While it might not achieve the emotional depth it aims for, it undoubtedly provides a gripping viewing experience filled with unexpected twists and visceral scares.
With a runtime of 99 minutes, this A24 release, set to hit theaters on Friday, is rated R for its grisly imagery, strong violent content, and disturbing themes. Prepare to question the boundaries of horror and witness what lies beneath the surface of human grief.
Two and a half stars out of four.
