Whether you believe or not, sometimes… “Monsters” are very real!

Ex Machina, Spring Breakers, Room, The Witch, and The Lobster. What do all these great films have in common?  Independent film distribution company A24, that’s what!  In 2016, they released yet another horror gem called The Monster.  Written and directed by Bryan Bertino (The Strangers), the film is not only full of fear-inducing tension, but also challenges the viewer on an emotional level as well. During October of 2016, it was screened at several film festivals such as Beyond Fest, the Tacoma Film Festival, and Sitges Film Festival. It has quickly gained an underground following and has been positively received by users and critics as well.

THE PLOT

The film follows a troubled young girl named Lizzy (Ella Ballentine), whose toxic relationship with her neglectful mother Kathy (Zoe Kazan) is finally reaching the breaking point.  The plan is for Lizzy to go and stay with her father, which may become a permanent arrangement.  After a long and stressful morning, the road trip begins with very little conversation between the two.  As night falls and a rainstorm hits, their travel comes to an abrupt halt when they hit an animal and almost lose control of the car.  When they get out to investigate, it appears that they hit a wolf.  The strange thing is that the wolf seems to have already been injured by some sort of animal.

Confused and a little frightened, they call for help.  When the tow truck arrives, they suddenly realize that the wolf is missing and they’re not alone!  Trapped in their car, the two must now rely on each other because it seems they’re being watched and possibly hunted by something lurking in the nearby woods…and it has no intention of letting them leave!

SHOULD YOU SEE IT?

I was VERY pleasantly surprised with this one!  It had a perfect blend of horror, tension, and drama.  The acting was top notch from both leads.  Some reviews have complained of the young Lizzy’s constant crying as being annoying.  I, for one, disagree with this.  If you can put yourself in her shoes, her distress is completely justified given the circumstances.

The film also does a great job of not overdoing the horror with cheap jump scares, and relies on the almost claustrophobic tension build up.  This is superbly highlighted by the characters’ fear and panic.  Another great aspect of the film is the drama between the mother and daughter.  The opening scene alone is somewhat disturbing, because it shows a tough reality that some viewers may be able to relate to.  This in turn sets the tone for what’s to come.

I would definitely recommend this film.  I thought it was great! Not only does it get under your skin…but it also makes you think.  Are “monsters” real?  You be the judge.