Love, Horror, and Mystery Intertwined

Read Time:3 Minute, 30 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Changeling
–

Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 8 x 45m episodes
Showrunner(s): Kelly Marcel
Director(s): Melina Matsoukas, Jonathan van Tulleken, Dana Gonzales, Slick Naim
Cast: LaKeith Stanfield, Clark Backo, Adina Porter, Samuel T. Herring, Malcolm Barrett, Alexis Louder, Jared Abrahamson
Where To Watch: The first three episodes will be released on Apple TV+ on September 8, 2023, followed by one new episode every Friday through October 13

RAVING REVIEW: Stepping onto the bustling streets of New York City, THE CHANGELING whisks viewers away into a fantastical yet unsettling world. Derived from Victor LaValle’s captivating 2017 novel, the series brings the city alive, and the cast is front and center, headlined by the magnetic LaKeith Stanfield and the powerful presence of Clark Backo. The ensemble, further embellished by talents like Adina Porter and others, crafts a journey that includes romantic drama and suspenseful thriller.

Apollo is our initial focus, played by Stanfield, whose deep love for books isn’t merely a pastime but an entire persona. Alongside Emmy, a librarian with spark, portrayed by Backo, they embark on a love story set to the beats of the 2010s. This narrative beautifully mirrors Apollo’s parents’ tumultuous affair, which grappled with societal norms during the transformative 1960s and 70s. With the birth of their son Brian, what seems like a straightforward narrative pivots into a mind-bending mystery. Ominous signs throughout sow seeds of doubt and fear in the series. A creeping suspicion thrusts Apollo into the labyrinth of NYC, hunting for answers and seeking protection for his family.

Kelly Marcel, the visionary behind this project, crafts a cinematic symphony of family sagas, chilling horror, and age-old myths. While the early episodes harmonize the budding romance of Apollo and Emmy with the poignant love tale of Apollo’s parents, maintaining that symphonic balance proves tricky. New characters and plot threads overshadow the primary focus as the narrative evolves.

Literature aficionados will feel seen in THE CHANGELING, where books aren’t just leisure but are the lifeblood of the series. Through Apollo and Emmy’s literary compass, the series unfolds its secrets. With his heartfelt portrayal of Apollo, Stanfield offers a standout performance worthy of high praise. Every emotion, especially when faced with unsettling visions, feels genuine. The charisma of Backo, Porter, and the entire cast keeps the viewers glued, every act intensifying Apollo’s enthralling quest.

Emmy’s emotional turmoil and affiliations with the mystical group Wise Mothers elevate the plot’s suspense. Navigating this new terrain, Apollo’s journey delves deep into the known and the mysterious. Here lies the beauty and challenge of THE CHANGELING. The film tiptoes the line between reality and the mystical. This continual dance—Are these sequences a mind’s play or rooted in a supernatural realm?—might intrigue or baffle viewers, impacting their bond with the lead characters.

While the narrative boasts impressive threads, its pacing could have improved. The storytelling oscillates, especially with time leaps and evolving character dynamics. Moreover, its enigmatic elements, although engrossing, occasionally leave viewers yearning for a director’s commentary.

Though it grapples to hold onto its initial magnetism throughout, the series remains a visual treat. This is a screen journey worth embarking on for those who crave a concoction of legends blended with expansive family tales.

For more reviews, please visit – https://linktr.ee/Overlyhonestmoviereviews for more info.

Follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Find my social media accounts on most platforms simply by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of APPLE TV+]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals’ extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I’m steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

#SAGAFTRA #WGA #SAGAFTRAStrong #WGAStrong