Joanthewoman

Men (2022), directed by Alex Garland, is an unsettling, visually captivating dive into grief, trauma, and the eerie undercurrents of masculinity told with a folkloristic twist. The film brilliantly blends psychological horror with a stark, atmospheric setting, following Jessie Buckley's mesmerizing performance as a woman who retreats to the countryside after the tragic death of her husband. Garland's direction creates an intense, almost suffocating sense of dread, and the final act-surreal and shocking-lingers long after the credits roll. It's a haunting, thought-provoking piece that's as beautifully disturbing as it is deeply relevant. Men is a standout in the A24 catalog, a masterclass in tension and thematic depth.

I'm never too much into remakes, however this film stands on its own quite well and can be considered as an art house film. Luca Guadagnino and David Kajganich did a great job, they extended the original storyline with more context and added another parallel storyline that gave the whole a bit more body. Allthough this sometimes feels forced and makes the film a bit thick like overstuffed soup. So is this a film for everyone? No, it will be quite a slow-burner for those who are into simple strong plots, quick gratification and action. It is layered, theatrical and heavy with symbolism, female mystique, motherhood and drama. Besides that the art direction is stunning and a visual feast, camerawork and composition are both very strong. Casting is surprising but works, impressive role by Dakota Johnsson who studied modern dance a year for this role, Tilda Swinton as Dr. Josef is less convincing but as Madame Blanc and Mother Helena Markos excels. Choreography by Damien Jalet is over-all strong but not spectacular. The musical score composed by Radiohead singer Thom Yorke feels often somewhat misplaced and counterintuitive to the scenes, but as a record by itself a must-have. So if you are into all of the above go and see it.