Never Let Go (2024), directed by Alexandre Aja, is a psychological horror film that centers on a mother (Halle Berry) and her two sons, Nolan (Percy Daggs IV) and Samuel (Anthony B. Jenkins), who are isolated in a remote home. The family is haunted by an unseen evil, which the mother insists is real, while her sons begin to question its existence. The film explores their struggle for survival as they adhere to strict rules to avoid the malevolent force.

Themes:

The film delves into themes of parental protection, mental illness, and the nature of evil. It also touches on the psychological impact of trauma and the struggles of isolation, drawing parallels to real-world issues like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Character Development:

Halle Berry delivers a compelling performance as a mother fiercely protective of her children, yet possibly unraveling under the weight of her own fears and traumas. Percy Daggs IV and Anthony B. Jenkins provide strong support as her sons, each grappling with their own doubts and loyalties. The dynamic between the characters is tense and emotionally charged, adding depth to the narrative.

Director’s Style:

Alexandre Aja is known for his ability to create intense, claustrophobic atmospheres, and “Never Let Go” is no exception. His use of tight, confined spaces and eerie, atmospheric visuals heightens the sense of dread and suspense throughout the film. Aja’s direction keeps the audience on edge, questioning the reality of the unseen evil.

Performances:

Halle Berry’s portrayal of a mother on the brink is both powerful and nuanced, capturing the desperation and determination of her character. The young actors, Daggs and Jenkins, also shine, bringing authenticity to their roles as children caught in a terrifying situation.

Technical Aspects:

The film’s cinematography effectively uses shadows and lighting to create a haunting ambiance. The sound design is equally impressive, with unsettling noises and a chilling score that enhance the horror elements. The makeup and special effects teams deserve praise for their work in visualizing the unseen evil in a way that is both terrifying and believable.

Strengths:

• Strong performances by the cast, particularly Halle Berry.
• Atmospheric direction by Alexandre Aja.
• Effective use of sound and visuals to create suspense.
• Engaging themes that resonate with real-world issues.

Weaknesses:

• The plot can be confusing at times, with too many competing ideas.
• Some themes are underexplored, leaving the audience with unanswered questions.
• The film’s pacing may feel slow to some viewers, particularly in the middle act.

Overall Impact:

Never Let Go is a thought-provoking horror film that combines strong performances with a tense, atmospheric setting. While it may leave some viewers puzzled by its complex themes, it succeeds in creating a gripping and unsettling experience.

Recommendation: Never Let Go 2024

If you enjoy psychological horror films that challenge your perceptions and keep you guessing, “Never Let Go” is worth watching. However, be prepared for a film that requires thoughtful engagement and may leave you with lingering questions.