A Shocking Tale of Obsession and Betrayal

Read Time:4 Minute, 19 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Grafted
–

Genre: Horror, Drama, Romance, Thriller
Year Released: 2024, 2025
Runtime: 1h 35m
Director(s): Sasha Rainbow
Writer(s): Sasha Rainbow, Mia Maramara, Hweiling Ow, Lee Murray
Cast: Joyena Sun, Jess Hong, Eden Hart, Jared Turner, Sepi To’a, Xiao Hu
Where To Watch: debuts on Shudder January 24, 2025

RAVING REVIEW: A new voice in the genre emerges with a film that isn’t afraid to take risks. Combining body horror with critiques of expected “norms,” it crafts a narrative as bold as imperfect. The result is a unique viewing experience that occasionally falters but remains deeply engaging for those willing to embrace its ambitious storytelling.

The plot centers on Wei (Joyena Sun,) a brilliant but introverted Chinese medical student who relocates to New Zealand after her father’s death. Her late father, a scientist with groundbreaking work in skin graft technology, left an unfinished legacy, and Wei was determined to continue his research. However, her new life proves anything but welcoming. Wei moves in with her aunt Ling (Xiao Hu) and cousin Angela (Jess Hong,) whose confidence and social prowess starkly contrast her reserved demeanor. Angela’s cruelty, combined with the mockery from her friends, creates a tense environment that isolates Wei further. These interactions deepen Wei’s feelings of alienation and inadequacy, pushing her toward her work as a means of escape.

Wei’s talent and determination at the university caught her professor's attention, Paul (Jared Turner). What initially seems like mentorship soon reveals itself as manipulation, as Paul exploits her discoveries to advance his career. This betrayal becomes pivotal, triggering Wei’s unraveling and leading her down a dark path. What begins as a quest for validation and justice escalates into increasingly desperate and horrifying decisions.

The film is incredible visually, with vibrant colors that reflect the protagonist’s inner rage. Subtle pink hues illustrate Wei’s vulnerability, while intense reds dominate as her actions spiral into chaos. These visual motifs mirror the film’s tonal shifts, oscillating between satirical commentary and horror. The sharp contrast between these tones keeps the audience on edge, creating a dynamic and unsettling atmosphere.

The body horror elements are particularly memorable, offering moments of inventive grotesqueness that stay with you long after the final scene. Early explorations of identity and societal beauty standards are compelling but lose prominence as the film leans heavily into its more outlandish and graphic sequences. The final act trades subtlety for spectacle, delivering a chaotic crescendo that, while visually striking, feels disconnected from the thematic groundwork laid earlier.

Sun anchors the film with a captivating performance. Her portrayal of Wei captures the character’s complexity—vulnerability tempered by a simmering determination that turns to desperation as her circumstances worsen. Sun’s ability to navigate Wei’s psychological shifts ensures the audience remains invested, even as the character makes morally questionable choices. The supporting cast provides strong performances that heighten the tension. While their roles are somewhat archetypal, the actors infuse them with enough nuance to keep them engaging.

Themes of conformity, identity, and ambition weave through the story, reflecting individuals' pressures to meet expectations. Wei’s journey parallels the immigrant experience as she grapples with adapting to a new culture while staying true to her roots.

When the film leans fully into its premise, it delivers moments of undeniable creativity. Its willingness to push boundaries and explore unconventional ideas results in incredible sequences. The film holds its audience’s attention with its innovative approach and strong central performance. In her first feature-length effort, Sasha Rainbow showcases a clear vision and an eagerness to challenge traditional storytelling.

For viewers willing to embrace its quirks and imperfections, the film offers a bold and unforgettable experience. It’s a story about ambition, identity, and the human desire to create and control, set against powerful imagery and unsettling horror; it dares to experiment in ways that leave a lasting impression. It’s a risk worth taking that lingers in your mind!

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[photo courtesy of SHUDDER]

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