Heart, Humor, and Monsters

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MOVIE REVIEW
Your Monster
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Genre: Comedy, Horror, Romance
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 38m
Director(s): Caroline Lindy
Writer(s): Caroline Lindy
Cast: Melissa Barrera, Tommy Dewey, Edmund Donovan, Kayla Foster, Kasey Bella Suarez, Taylor Trensch, Brandon Victor Dixon, Meghann Fahy
Where To Watch: released in theaters on October 25, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: “You can never lose me, Laura; I’m Your Monster.” We enter a life thrown into chaos by the aftermath of surgery and heartbreak; Laura Franco (Melissa Barrera) finds herself in the home that once provided comfort, now housing an unexpected housemate from her nightmares. YOUR MONSTER takes us on an unconventional ride, turning the nightmare under the bed into an unlikely companion on a journey of self-discovery and healing.

In YOUR MONSTER, we encounter Laura amid a turbulent phase of her life, wrestling with post-operative trauma and the sting of betrayal from Jacob (Edmund Donovan,) her ex-boyfriend. Jacob’s clinical breakup and subsequent exploitation of their shared memories for a Broadway production twist the knife even deeper. When Laura feels most isolated, she is reacquainted with a childhood terror—the monster under her bed, who surprisingly evolves into a supportive, albeit unconventional, ally.

Director Caroline Lindy mixes horror, romantic comedy, and musical theater elements, crafting a tapestry as intricate as the emotions it portrays. The monster (Tommy Dewey,) typically a symbol of fear, is reimagined as a healing presence, propelling Laura toward emotional recovery. Barrera delivers a captivating performance as Laura, tracing her character’s transformation from vulnerability to empowerment with compelling heart and soul.

Dewey diverges from the traditional horror archetype, presenting a monster with a penchant for classic cinema rather than chaos. His nuanced portrayal infuses the film with humor and warmth, enriching the growing camaraderie between him and Laura. Their evolving relationship defies typical romantic arcs, focusing instead on shared growth and understanding, anchored by their mutual love for the arts.

The screenplay of YOUR MONSTER is a standout, with razor-sharp dialogue and meticulous character development, particularly in the portrayal of Laura and the monster's deepening bond. Their connection, built on a foundation of shared passions, becomes a sanctuary and a backdrop for personal growth, showcasing the film’s deft blend of fantastical elements with poignant emotional narratives. Also, anyone questioning Barrera’s singing ability will be shut down after this; she was fantastic!

The ambitious blending of genres in YOUR MONSTER occasionally leads to uneven tonal shifts, which can disrupt the film’s narrative flow. Although this adds a unique charm to the film's journey, I do wish I could have seen an exploration of Laura’s story outside of our main narrative. One of my favorite aspects of the film is the portrayal of the trauma that Laura goes through, the mental deterioration, and the exploration of mental manipulation that people can cause in others. It’s a genuine portrayal of one of the most painful aspects of human life.

Lindy’s YOUR MONSTER is more than just a cinematic experience; it's a profound meditation on confronting literal and metaphorical monsters. The film blends humor with heart, inviting viewers to face their fears and find unexpected strength. YOUR MONSTER stands out as a heartfelt narrative of resilience and recovery, resonating deeply with anyone who has ever faced their demons.

#YourMonster

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[photo courtesy of BOMBO SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT, MERMADE, BANKSIDE FILMS, WME INDEPENDENT, VERTICAL ENTERTAINMENT, VERTIGO RELEASING]

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