Immersed in the perpetual daylight of a Swedish summer, "Midsommar" unfolds its petals to reveal a story that is far removed from the traditional scares and screams that horror aficionados are accustomed to. This isn't your ordinary fright fest; it's a cerebral and visceral experience that's as unsettling as it is beautifully crafted. With a score of 7 out of 10, there's plenty to appreciate in director Ari Aster's sophomore outing—it's a good movie to see for those seeking something unconventional and hauntingly atmospheric.
The film captivates from the onset with its emotionally charged premise. Dani, portrayed by an impressive Florence Pugh, clings to the frayed threads of her relationship with Christian after suffering a staggering loss. Her vulnerability and Christian's disengagement lay the foundation for a dynamic that is both complex and painfully real. When they, alongside a group of friends, embark on a voyage to a secluded village for a midsummer festival, the stage is set not for heartwarming escapades but for a plunge into the uncanny.
Upon their arrival, the bucolic splendor of the village and the perpetual twilight of the summer solstice envelop them. The cinematography captivates, wrapping the idyll in an ethereal glow, which juxtaposes the film's dark undercurrent. This beauty is not merely a backdrop but a character in itself, lulling the visitors into a false sense of security.
The narrative unspools at a deliberate pace, peeling back the layers of tradition and esoteric rituals to reveal something far more primal. It doesn't shy away from taking its time, allowing tension to brew and simmer rather than boil over with cheap jump scares. Yet, therein lies a double-edged sword. The film's pacing, while meditative, may alienate viewers craving immediate gratification or traditional horror tropes.
"Midsommar" is at its core a dissection of human relationships and the primal fear of the unknown. Its twists and revelations are more psychosocial than supernatural, confronting the viewer with a scrutiny of societal norms and the fragility of the mind. The performances, especially from Pugh, are raw and captivating, amplifying the sense of authenticity that pervades this strange pilgrimage.
The supporting cast, though somewhat eclipsed by Dani's grief-stricken journey, deliver nuanced portrayals, becoming the proverbial lambs amongst wolves as the festival progresses. Jack Reynor's Christian embodies the ever-present dissonance of a man torn between desire and obligation, making his transformation over the course of the film an engaging watch.
The movie’s climax, a tapestry of visceral shock and awe, is where "Midsommar" secures its place in the halls of avant-garde horror. It doesn't recoil from the grotesque, embracing it as a tool for catharsis and revelation. Yet, it's not the blood or the gore that will haunt the viewer, but the unshakable feeling that what unfolded on screen could somehow, under the right circumstances, be real.
As the credits roll, "Midsommar" leaves its mark as an unforgettable trip through the psychological. Its surreal nature, combined with the raw emotional underpinnings, makes for a film that is as thought-provoking as it is disturbing. It won't be for everyone, but for those willing to wander off the beaten path, this film shines a different kind of light on the horror genre—a light that continues to burn long after the summer sun has set.
Score: 7/10
