"Family Horror Film, 'Bring Her Back,' Exhibits Troubling Characteristics"
The Australian film landscape is heating up with the release of "Bring Her Back", the latest offering from directors Danny and Michael Philippou. Following the success of recent films like "Shayda" and "You'll Never Find Me", "Bring Her Back" is set to make a mark this summer.
In this dark and unsettling tale, we meet step-siblings Andy and Piper, who become orphans after their father’s death and are placed with their eccentric foster mother Laura. Laura, a former counselor grieving the loss of her own blind daughter, fosters a mute boy named Oliver, around whom mysterious and occult activities swirl. As Andy becomes suspicious of Laura’s behavior and the strange rituals she conducts, he struggles with his fractured family dynamics and the supernatural forces converging on them.
Critics have praised "Bring Her Back" for its atmospheric horror and strong performances, especially Sally Hawkins as Laura. Her portrayal, casting against type, adds complex layers of humanity and menace, enhancing the film's dark emotional core. The sibling performances—Billy Barratt as Andy and Sora Wong as Piper, both newcomers—are noted for their bravery and authenticity.
The film has been described as a blend of horror and psychological thriller that deals with heavy themes like grief and abuse rather than relying solely on jump scares. However, some criticism has been levied at the film's slow pacing and far-fetched plot elements, with occasional complaints about excessive gore.
Despite these minor criticisms, "Bring Her Back" is generally regarded as a disturbing, accomplished work that marks a bold step from the Philippou brothers after their debut, "Talk to Me". It is a film that is capable of deeply unsettling its audience, recommended for those who enjoy horror and suspense.
The Philippou brothers, known for their success in the horror-comedy genre, have raised the bar of ambition in "Bring Her Back". Born in 1992, the brothers gained fame through YouTube videos and short films before making their feature film debut with "Talk to Me" in 2022. "Bring Her Back" is their second feature film, and they have stayed true to several aspects of their debut in its creation.
Meanwhile, "Shayda", directed by Noora Niasari, and "You'll Never Find Me", directed by Josiah Allen and Indianna Bell, are two other recent successful Australian films, released in July. With "Bring Her Back" joining the ranks, it's clear that the Australian cinema scene is thriving.
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