Fresh is truly refreshing. There’s something so tonally unique about it that the safety of the comedy makes the horror so much more terrifying. I’m not normally someone who can stomach horror films all that well, but this was surprisingly palatable. What’s happening is truly horrific, but the thrill of knowing there’s some hope for Noa is exhilarating.
The film eases you into the plot like a small appetiser preparing for the main course. Honestly, the first 30 minutes before the title screen could’ve been a short film and been incredibly satisfying. It really showcases how much of a hell hole modern dating is, especially for a young woman, and how void small acts of kindness are from our lives that even the smallest display of genuinity can break down our walls and leave us defenceless.
Since Normal People, I’ve been anticipating seeing Daisy Edgar-Jones in something else and what a performance she delivers here. She perfectly captures the frustrations many face in the digital age, and then equally manages to perfect the emotionally taxing role of being held captive by the psychotic Sebastian Stan. And he’s truly psychotic. Stan PERFECTS this role, he’s just batshit crazy, and it’s endlessly enjoyable to watch. It’s apparently obvious from the start that this relationship isn’t going to end well, but Stan has this effect of drawing you with his charm that you understand how Noa ends up in the position she does.
Adored the use of music in this too. Not many films can incorporate licensed music well into their films without it feeling tonally jarring or just completely out of place, but the music here adds a delectable flavour to the narrative that makes it feel unique. The moments when the music stop and is replaced by a chilling score only adds to the horror too.
The film tries to have more of a social commentary than it actually does, and towards the end sort of loses its messaging. It’s not bad per say but just not the main pull of the film, and it could’ve ended on a higher note. Still this is an endlessly enjoyable film, and a fantastic feature debut film from Mimi Cave.
★★★1/2
