Film Review: “TOGETHER” Explores Grotesque Body Horror and Strained Relationships

Director Michael Shanks makes his feature-length debut with “Together,” a film that plunges into the depths of body horror while examining the stresses on a relationship. Starring the real-life married couple Alison Brie and Dave Franco, the movie centers on a couple whose decision to relocate to the countryside precipitates a series of events involving supernatural forces, leading to radical transformations of their lives, their love, and even their physical forms.

With a running time of 96 minutes, “Together” distinguishes itself with its willingness to venture into unsettling, grotesque territory, blending psychological tension with visceral horror elements. The narrative unfolds as Millie, portrayed by Brie, accepts a new teaching position in a rural setting, prompting her partner, Tim (Franco), a struggling musician, to follow her. This pivotal move sets the stage for the couple’s unraveling relationship and the bizarre encounters that ensue.

Navigating the Plot and Performances

The film immediately establishes a disquieting atmosphere through its opening scenes, featuring striking and at times bizarre imagery, including a creepy cave and sinister-looking dogs. These initial moments effectively set a tone of unease and foreshadow the darkness that lies ahead.

The core of “Together” lies in the dynamic between Brie and Franco. Reviewers have noted the palpable and natural chemistry between the real-life spouses, which lends an authentic layer to their characters’ increasingly strained interactions. This genuine connection serves to anchor the audience even as the plot descends into the surreal and horrific.

Supporting performances also contribute to the film’s texture. Damon Herriman features as a potentially ominous fellow teacher, his presence adding an element of suspicion and further complicating the couple’s isolated existence.

The narrative includes moments designed to elicit strong reactions from the audience. One particularly memorable scene involves Millie attempting to propose to Tim, a moment described as mortifying, highlighting the awkwardness and miscommunication that can plague even deeply committed relationships. The film reportedly succeeds in generating both jumps of fright and moments of dark, uncomfortable humor, suggesting a tonal balance between pure horror and comedic relief.

Visuals, Sound, and Lingering Questions

Director Shanks employs entertaining visual and aural sequences throughout “Together,” crafting a distinct sensory experience for the viewer. One notable sequence mentioned in reviews takes place in a shower, showcasing the film’s creative approach to presenting its unsettling themes and grotesque transformations.

Despite its strengths in performance and presentation, the film has been noted for leaving a significant number of lingering questions unresolved by its conclusion. While this ambiguity may be intentional to some extent, it can leave some viewers seeking more definitive answers regarding the supernatural elements and their ultimate impact on the characters.

Critical Reception and Industry Prospects

“Together” has garnered a mixed but generally positive reception, as indicated by a final score of 7/10 in a recent review. This score suggests the film is a worthwhile watch, particularly for enthusiasts of the body horror genre and those interested in experimental approaches to relationship dramas.

However, despite its creative merits and the performances of its lead actors, the film is acknowledged as having no Oscar prospects. Its niche genre and potentially challenging content likely position it outside the typical parameters for major awards consideration.

In conclusion, Michael Shanks’ “Together” stands as a bold feature debut. It leverages the real-life chemistry of Alison Brie and Dave Franco to explore the extreme pressures a relationship can endure when confronted by external, supernatural forces. While it delivers memorable scares and striking visuals, its narrative ambiguity leaves room for interpretation and discussion.