Never Let Go starts with promise but loses its way as it progresses. Directed by Alexandre Aja, the film aims to be a tense psychological survival thriller but ends up feeling directionless.
The premise is intriguing: a family isolated in the woods, living in fear of an unseen force called "The Evil." The mother, played by Halle Berry, has her two sons convinced, or does she?, that this dark entity will take them if they break a strict set of rules. The initial setup is genuinely creepy, drawing viewers into the family's world of paranoia. Berry delivers a compelling performance, adding depth to her character's descent into madness and elevating the tension.
The film explores themes of faith and doubt, particularly how disbelief can unravel a fragile reality. The son, Nolan, begins to question his mother’s warnings, creating tension that plays well against the eerie family dynamic. For a time, the ambiguity, whether "The Evil" is real or imagined, keeps viewers engaged.
However, the story begins to feel repetitive. The cryptic lore, tension-filled arguments, and “is it real or isn’t it” moments lose their impact over time. What starts as an intriguing mythology about "The Evil" becomes muddled as the plot progresses. The climax, intended to be thought-provoking, is underwhelming. The inclusion of a bizarre CGI snake-monster feels out of place and detracts from the intended psychological nuance.
The film’s visual effects, surprisingly dated for 2024, diminish the impact of some pivotal scenes. Instead of amplifying the terror, the CGI feels awkward and even laughable at times. A more grounded approach could have made the final act far more effective.
Despite its flaws, Never Let Go has its strengths. Alexandre Aja excels at creating an eerie atmosphere, especially in the claustrophobic cabin and the surrounding woods. Some scenes are genuinely chilling, but the repetition and overlong pacing sap their power.
Ultimately, the film is a mixed bag. Halle Berry’s performance stands out as a highlight, bringing more to the role than the script provides. While it had the potential to be a standout psychological horror, the convoluted plot and unsatisfying resolution hold it back. Fans of the genre might still find it worth watching, but it falls short of groundbreaking. Score: 6.5/10.
Out Now on Digital at https://apple.co/3Y7tLlG
