MOVIE REVIEW
Daddy's Head
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Genre: Horror
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 37m
Director(s): Benjamin Barfoot
Writer(s): Benjamin Barfoot
Cast: Julia Brown, Rupert Turnbull, Charles Aitken, Nathaniel Martello-White
Where To Watch: streaming on Shudder October 11, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Venture into the shadowy depths of DADDY'S HEAD, where the haunting blend of psychological and paranormal elements creates a thrilling experience. In this remote, sprawling estate, young Isaac (Rupert Turnbull) faces the echoes of his past under the care of his stepmother, Laura (Julia Brown,) following his father's unexpected death. The film, directed by Benjamin Barfoot, maps their journey through grief and the spectral disruptions that seem to mirror the widening chasm between them with unnerving accuracy.

Barfoot’s sophomore effort utilizes a minimalist setting to ramp up the suspense, transforming the surrounding forest and the mansion’s dimly lit corridors into silent voices in the film’s unfolding terror as Isaac encounters a ghostly figure, the lines between reality and hallucination blur. This spectral vision leaves viewers questioning whether it's a product of Isaac’s grief or an actual supernatural entity.

The narrative excels in its deep dive into themes of isolation and the profound impacts of grief on personal relationships. Isaac and Laura's fraught interactions and failure to communicate their deepest fears fertilize the ground for the evil force growing within their home, which thrives on their shared despair. The film’s lead actors portray this emotional disconnect. Turnbull’s performance as Isaac is a gripping portrayal of a young man grappling with overwhelming sorrow. At the same time, Brown, as Laura, captures the essence of a woman thrust into a role she is ill-prepared for, overwhelmed by her grief.

Barfoot’s use of stark cinematography and deliberate pacing enhances the atmosphere. Each frame is carefully composed to ensure that the oppressive ambiance of the mansion is as much a character in the narrative as Isaac and Laura. This visual strategy amplifies the film’s somber tone and cements its place as a visually oppressive story.

Nevertheless, the film does encounter pacing issues, particularly in the middle act, where the tension occasionally wanes. The narrative could benefit from tighter editing to maintain a consistent build-up of suspense. Introducing more unexpected plot twists or further developing the interactions with the mysterious apparition could provide a more dynamic pace to the story.

Despite these few stumbles, DADDY'S HEAD offers us something that is more than just a horror film; it is a compelling exploration of loss and the shadows it casts, twisting together psychological exploration with supernatural occurrences. The film’s strength lies in its ability to pose open-ended questions about the nature of grief and its distortion of reality, challenging viewers to reflect on the blurred lines between what is real and what is imagined.

The film’s conclusion, shrouded in ambiguity, leaves a chilling residue that lingers long after the credits roll, making DADDY'S HEAD a memorable experience for anyone drawn to psychological thrillers with a twist. Barfoot’s film promises and delivers an immersive journey into the dark corners of human sorrow, allowing the film to share its thoughtful and provocative approach to traditional horror tropes. While it may not be for everyone, those who appreciate the deeper dive will enjoy it.

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[photo courtesy of SHUDDER]

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