User reviews

First, it is a horror film. That is important because the expectations for a horror film are a lot more flexible than with other genres. An audience will give the creator more latitude, more flexibility, to achieve a result. Second, the creator, writer/Director Steven J. Mihaljevich, has a reputation as a maverick. That is, he does not offer the traditional linear narrative or traditional filmic exposition. He is all about jump cuts, scenes with limited, jarring dialog, and shocking images that come and go almost with a mind of their own. There is a story, of course, but it is presented as a puzzle, for the viewer to piece togather. Third, the detailed reviews offered here by members do not match the overall ratings for the film left by viewers who did not bother to leave a review. The reviews here are mainly 10's. The actual ratings, not so much. And fourth, in my time at IMDb, with over 2000+ reviews, the reviews left here are some of the most sophisticated "fake" reviews I have ever seen. They could win an essay contest. But they are not genuine. Conclusion? The final product is visually stunning in sections but not necessarily entertaining. Mainly for film students looking to see how far the medium can be bent before it breaks completely. ((Designated "IMDb Top Reviewer." Please check out my list "167+ Nearly-Perfect Movies (with the occasional Anime or TV miniseries) you can/should see again and again (1932 to the present))

It's nothing new under the sun. It is indeed horror but more of a psychological horror than a supernatural although they did manage to incorporate some supernatural elements and even a nod at the Disney show white witch trying to convince someone to eat the apple. That could have also been interpreted as eating the apple could open your eyes and make you see what's really happening like the garden of Eden. Anyway I actually didn't see the ending coming as you end up getting faked out not once, not twice, but three times and when you realize what really happened everything makes so much more sense. A movie with a plot and an ending. The build up was a little bit of a slow burn but once the ball gets rolling it rolls right up until the ending credits. I also would like to point out the over saturation of colors and the makeup used to convey emotion were fascinating. It's worth a watch for sure.

This is the best movie ever inspired by Vincent van gogh's famous album cover for Black Sabbath. Over exposed grain also evokes some classic British folk horror. The lead actress method acting as a recovering heroin addict expecting at any moment to be punched in the face is effective on an unnerving level. The horror aficionados expecting linear slash n scream aren't getting the point of a technicolor Wisconsin death trip art film, but you can't blame them, it isn't exactly everyone's cup of tea. Would enjoy this directors take on different grindhouse genres, a little wicker man here, some Sam peckinpah there, maybe even a little ed wood just for giggles. Big budget wise I would give him a chance at a single ember zombie apocalypse, he's certainly found the actress for that.

I really appreciate these types of films where you aren't expecting much and then the movie exceeds your expectations. From start to finish the tone of the film is one of unease; it keeps you guessing while maintaining a sense of mystery. The fact that it wasn't made by a big budget studio was to its benefit, the cinematography and acting is significantly better than what you would expect from a typical hollywood horror film. I think big movie studios are afraid to produce more artistic and creative films like this because they might not fare as well in the box office. The practical effects and use of color added to the overall experience throughout. Ultimately, it's a film about grief and trauma above all else, while the more conventional horror aspects are used to drive the plot. It's refreshing to see unique films like this when we all too often get the same cookie cutter horror films being pumped out by Hollywood. The movie currently has under 1,000 votes which is a little disappointing considering that it doesn't have the audience the film deserves. This is one I plan on rewatching to fully appreciate all the nuance and detail I might have missed.

This movie... please give it a chance because it blew my mind. What really blew my mind was the 4/10 rating. Let's just say that the cinematography gives the atmosphere and the ambience of the dark, psychological and most uncomfortable kind of horror I could never imagine putting myself in. The movie really played me in the end and for a movie to make my mouth drop takes a lot. The acting was really well done by a cast I've never seen before in my life. If anybody can recommend more movies like this one, I would grately appreciate it. It's rare these days to find a good horror of any sub genre to give a good shock value along with a deep story line.

Beautiful cinematography and art direction, the best thing about this movie. The compositions, lighting and colour selection are A1, very impressive and appealing. The protagonist and her daughter have a gothic aesthetic that I really liked, and suited the atmosphere. The 'witch' was a great character that I feel was underused. The handyman was a little too goofy. The husband had the right look, but was an underwhelming character that didn't have enough to say. Dialogue in general was not great, not engaging enough. Overall story and twists were okay, although I saw it coming. One major criticism is that it was way too slow between the more engaging scenes. Better thought out dialogue would have changed that substantially. Basically, the ideas are good, aesthetics outstanding, but it just doesn't quite get there as a whole. A one off watch, when you can't find anything else more promising.

I labeled my review misunderstood because I misunderstood. I deleted my original review. What my original review got correct was the film is disturbing and disorienting. What I didn't realize was just how much so. This was a well done slowburn. Don't make the same mistake I did and have patience. If you do you'll understand how dark, demented, and twisted this really was. I thought I was desensitized, but when I realized what actually happened I couldn't believe how cruel and evil people could be to each other. I didn't see it coming and now that I understand I have to say, well played!! Give it a watch.

I gave this movie 7/10 after getting an hour in... Then we get to the end. And it was SUBERB!!!!!

I now up it to 8 out of 10... Then after it ended, I reflected on it. I moved it up to 9 Then after watching for a 2nd time, i gave it 10.. Ok its ARTSY. Not for everyone.

Its SURREALISTIC, very floaty, like being caught inside a dream of someones mind.

This film is heavy on feeling, as well as being super unconventional & ABSTRACT.

People will either LOVE or HATE this film Me? I dug it BIG TIME There are 3 twists, the first you might see coming.

The ending will tear you up, but you wont be left puzzled, only more intruiged.

Its also SUPER HEARTBREAKING Brilliantly written, crafted & directed with KILLER shots, amazing music & colour design.

A real thoughtful, creative & original piece of work that does not hold back on style & craft. A HIDDEN GEM!!!!

Sonya plays a great role as an addicted and sorrowful mother, whose child Violett apparently gets kidnapped, as have other children in the town. This movie is also notable for the vibrant colors in the cinematography. There are flashbacks, showing as a child Sonya suffered from a rather stern and possibly violent father, making her childhood one more of horror than of a carefree childhood. She also has dreams, that are woven with reality such that one cannot be certain if what she sees is real or in a dream. She is clearly addicted to drugs, and has the look about her of an addict who forgoes eating for drugs. Her dear child Violett just never returned home from school, and that was the day Sonya didn't accompany her home. We see early glimpses of the joy she had in meeting and marrying Stan but that seemed to be replaced with a more exasperated Stan, who tries but cannot pierce her state of mind. This is not a joyful film, and just some of what Sonya goes through is enough horror for many. The pacing may seem slow, but it unwinds the many interwoven parts nicely.

Not as much of a horror as I expected, but more of a good mystery. It kept me wondering all the way to the end. Film work and acting was top notch. I thoroughly enjoyed the sets and scenery that was used, as this is a part of the world that I have never had the opportunity to explore. Knowing that the movie was filmed in Australia had me wondering if the accents would be difficult to understand, but that certainly was not the case. The scariest part was that somewhat wicked old crone with her quickly withering apple. It left me worried about opening my foot to a stranger. To sum up my opinion - I recommend this movie 100%.

It's fascinating to me that so many people regard this film as horror. It even says so on the genre description if you watch it on prime video. I just didn't see it as such, but I can understand how others would.

I found Violett to be so beautifully shot. I loved how each scene is an important piece of the puzzle, even if the viewer cannot yet see why, how, or where the piece belongs. We see such a heart wrenching snap shot of a grieving mother, how she now sees everyone around her as a distorted caricature of themselves. I'm surprised at how low the ratings are for this movie, given how many high ones I see. I'm glad I decided to look beyond the rating and view this traffic, beautiful film.

Some of the best horror films are those that burn slowly, embers of nightmarish intent smouldering until the end, and continuing to burn into the mind long after the final image fades.

VIOLETT (named after the young girl in the film) is a study of psychological disrepair, shrouded by an ominous cloud of despair. It's a young woman's personal hell, a mother, Sonya (Georgia Eyers), traumatised, struggling to cope, terrified for her young daughter's safety.

There is danger at her doorstep. Her husband is at wit's end, and her neighbours are weird. As Sonya's reality unravels - providing the viewer with a suitably unreliable perspective - the darkest truth is finally uncovered. It's a terrific ending.

Imagine David Lynch down under. Think the elements of mystery and allure from Blue Velvet, but from the point of view of Dorothy.

Writer/director Steven Mihaljevich has conjured a very dreamlike portrait of the ruinous nature of guilt. Rich in symbolism and texture. It's a film that is beautiful and grim in equal measure. Georgia Eyers is fantastic in the lead role as Sonya.

Watch it on the biggest screen you can.

Immediately captivating, and relentlessly intense. This is a true masterpiece in the Australian cinema. The directors expertise in incorporating the Australian landscape and culture into a thrilling story is at the core of what makes this movie great. The intensity that builds throughout this film is effortless, leaving the viewer constantly in anticipation of what is to come. A truly visceral experience. The actors portray their characters flawlessly, and the scores, shot selection and a myriad of other elements makes this film truly unique. I cannot overstate how highly I regard this movie. I recommend anyone with an eye for cinematography, a romantic ideal of narrative, or realistically, anyone who wants to sit and enjoy a good movie. 10/10.

In a landscape saturated with formulaic horror films, Violett stands out as a genuine movie with substance. It evokes a sense of unease and discomfort that is rarely achieved in contemporary cinema. The film's ability to balance psychological depth with a gripping narrative, along with its' almost amusing absurdist elements, makes it a standout in the horror genre.

Violett is a cinematic triumph that explores the shadows of trauma with finesse and originality. From Georgia Eyers' powerful performance and Jay Jay Jegathesan's unnerving and mesmerizing portrayal, to the eerie cinematography - the film is a testament to the artistry and writing of filmmaker Steven J. Mihaljevich. It's a must-watch for those seeking a horror experience that transcends the genre's conventions.

Special mention must be made of Mani Shanks, who delivers a remarkable performance as young Sonya. This cast and crew will be ones to watch!!

This slow burn piece is intoxicating. From its delicious colour palette and complementary production design to its extraordinary lead performances, there's nothing about this film that won't reward the thoughtful viewer. There's often too much caution in an earlier slate of Australian horrors and this film does not pull its punches. The ineluctable sense of trauma that builds from its first moments has you clutching at the armrest, and director Mihaljevich dares you to look away. His cohort of performers rise to the challenge of his detailed script, with unaffected and raw performances from lead Eyers and a long overdue return to the screens of an ever compelling Angela Punch McGregor.

Particularly appreciated was its commitment to a sonic experience, marrying a score and design that genuinely plays boldly - it certainly wrapped the audience in its nacreous delights on the night I saw it.

Any ambitious young actors should look to Mihaljevich's precise form of storytelling to render for themselves what is truly important in harnessing a relentless, engaging and challenging character over ninety minutes.

I want to see more from this filmmaker.

This is the most uniquely interesting and mysterious film I've seen this year. I'm surprised i hadnt heard about it before now. It's one that will grip you from beginning to end, taking you on a wild ride throughout a dreamlike state, only to stop when the most unbelievable thing happens to be the truth. It's shot beautifully and the cinematography is so unreal it brings you into this weird, gloomy neighborhood where you're trapped with these characters. The shots in a yellow flowering meadow with a bathtub are gorgeous. Violett is a stunner and its a shame films like this dont get more recognition. Get ready to purchase this film after you see it because I sure enough did.

If you are wanting a run of the mill- popcorn slasher, this isn't the movie for you. This film has heart and challenges you intellectually as you try to work out what is going on. And when everything starts to come together, you won't want to stop watching as you are hit with twist after twist.

If you love beautifully shot films, this one is up there with one of the best for its budget, which is also heavily influenced by its stellar direction. The camera is like its own character in this film, deceiving us with when and what we were seeing, in a way that was authentic and kept you wanting more. We get beauty when we were expecting horror and vice versa.

Amazing film with an incredibly chilling ending. Do yourself a favour and watch this film, it will stick with you for a long time.

Brilliant!! Great quirky horror with un expected plot twists. Keeps u glued in the best possible way. Great work Aussie!!! I recommend checking it out. If you like films like 'Talk to me' and 'Hereditary' I feel you will loke this. I was very impressed with the cinematography and music and enjoyed the quirky performances that drive home the unique story line. I thought I knew what was going to happen but I kept changing my mind and of course, I didn't expect the ending twist. Keep the great work up Australia. I'll jeep coming back if this is the new standard to expect. I would love to see this in the theatre.

Coming from Western Australia myself, I try to watch as many Western Australian made flims as I can, and Steven J. Mihaljevich's 'Violett' is one of the best I've seen. His previous film, 'The Xrossing' is well worth a look too, but 'Violett' goes to the next level.

The stand out is the absolutely stunning cinematography by Shane Piggott.

Excellent performances from the entire cast. Georgia Eyers as Sonya carries the film beautifully. Jay Jay Jegathesan is creepy and terrifying as an evil version of a children's TV character. Mani Shanks as the young Sonya will be one to watch out for in the future.

This is a very well written and directed film; a very tense and moody psychological horror/thriller/drama.

This movie was Awesome! The creator of this movie did a brilliant job at directing your thoughts and assumptions following the twists and turns until the very end. It left you wanting to know more throughout the movie as details were drip-fed to you in a slow agonising fashion..

The characters were performed with utter brilliance by the cast and I could not fault anything with how it was made. It had me on the edge of my seat the whole movie. It truly is an Unforgettable Movie! Instead of a usual horror film, you got an intense psychological thriller that ends up burned into your memory.

Wow! Wow! Wow! I Absolutely Loved It!!! It is definitely worth the watch and I look forward to this director's future creations..

A tense and gripping feature that's cinematically outstanding. You are captivated from the onset and are drawn into the woven web of the world of Violett.

Yes it's dark but tinged with empathy and emotion but chills you with its twists and turns.

So well cast and for the lead to be her second feature the talented Georgia Eyers will no doubt make her a name to remember.

My first thought was this was filmed in the US but that's how brilliant the writer and director Steven Mihaljevich is a fine filmmaker from Western Australia who will no doubt be moving fast in his field.

Great team of Steven, Helena Polley and Ben Chase.