A chilling tale of survival: ‘Never Let Go’ review
Introduction to a haunting narrative
“Never Let Go” doesn’t aim to revolutionize the horror genre but instead offers a gripping take on familiar themes. The film, directed by Alexandre Aja, delves into the eerie story of a mother and her two children battling sinister forces in a secluded cabin. While it may draw minor comparisons to “Bird Box,” Aja’s film stands on its own, weaving a psychological thriller that explores themes of grief, sanity, rebellion, and redemption.
A family on the edge
The isolated sanctuary
Halle Berry stars as Momma, who has taken her fraternal twins, Samuel (Anthony B. Jenkins) and Nolan (Percy Daggs IV), to her parents’ remote cabin in the wilderness. The towering trees surrounding the property act as a barrier, shielding them from the outside world. However, this isolation is not just a physical barrier but a psychological one, keeping the family away from the perceived evils of society.
Rituals and routines
Momma believes that the world is teeming with evil entities waiting to corrupt her children. To protect themselves, the family adheres to strict rituals, such as tethering themselves to the cabin with a rope when they venture outside and performing daily prayers and meditations. These rituals are meant to keep their sanctuary safe from malevolent forces.
Cracks in the facade
A dangerous outing
The family’s fragile peace begins to unravel when a trip to gather food goes awry. Samuel injures his ankle, and Nolan drops the rope to help him, leaving them vulnerable to a sinister entity. Momma rescues them from a demonic figure disguised as her deceased mother, but only she can see this apparition. This incident sows seeds of doubt in Nolan’s mind about the monsters his mother warns them about.
Growing tensions
As the family’s food supply dwindles due to harsh environmental conditions, tensions rise. Nolan starts to question Momma’s authority, suspecting that her actions might be causing more harm than good. The brothers’ once-strong bond begins to weaken, adding to the family’s growing sense of desperation.
Aja’s masterful storytelling
Ordinary people in extraordinary situations
Alexandre Aja, known for films like “High Tension” and “The Hills Have Eyes,” excels at placing ordinary people in nightmarish scenarios. In “Never Let Go,” he skillfully taps into universal fears, creating a sense of dread that resonates with both the characters and the audience.
Lean and mean narrative
Aja, along with screenwriters KC Coughlin and Ryan Grassby, crafts a tightly constructed narrative that keeps the audience on edge. The film’s pacing is brisk, and the suspense is palpable, thanks to editor Elliot Greenberg’s sharp cuts, composer Rob’s discordant synth-heavy score, and DP Maxime Alexandre’s cool-hued lighting.
The heart of the horror
A fight for survival
The film’s tension reaches its peak when Samuel and Nolan face a life-or-death situation involving the family dog. The young actors, Jenkins and Daggs, deliver powerful performances, capturing the vulnerability and resilience of their characters.
The true terror
While “Never Let Go” includes some traditional jump scares, the real horror lies in the insidiousness of evil that threatens to tear the family apart. The film explores how doubt, dissent, and deception can lead to devastating consequences. Berry’s portrayal of Momma is both compelling and heartbreaking, as she struggles to protect her children while grappling with her own inner demons.
A thought-provoking ending
Reality or delusion?
From the beginning to the final moments, “Never Let Go” keeps the audience guessing whether the monsters are real or figments of the family’s imagination. This ambiguity invites viewers to ponder the nature of evil and the lengths to which people will go to protect their loved ones.
A gripping journey
Though the film’s ending may leave some viewers wanting more, “Never Let Go” remains a haunting and thought-provoking tale. It challenges us to consider the fine line between sanity and madness, and the sacrifices we make in the name of love and survival.
For those interested in experiencing the chilling atmosphere and psychological depth of “Never Let Go,” you can watch the trailer here.
Final thoughts
“Never Let Go” is a testament to Alexandre Aja’s ability to create intense, character-driven horror. The film’s exploration of familial bonds, mental health, and the nature of evil makes it a standout in the genre. With strong performances, especially from Halle Berry, and a narrative that keeps you on the edge of your seat, this film is a must-watch for horror enthusiasts.
For more information and to dive deeper into the world of “Never Let Go,” visit the official page.