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Horripilations Review of Fresh (2022)

Movie Review: Fresh (2022)

Synopsis

“Fresh,” directed by Mimi Cave, is a dark comedy-horror film that delves into the unsettling world of modern dating and the grotesque lengths to which some individuals will go to find love. The film centres on Noa (played by Daisy Edgar-Jones), a young woman navigating the treacherous waters of contemporary romance, characterised by swipe culture and fleeting connections. After a series of lacklustre encounters, she finally meets Steve (played by Sebastian Stan) in a grocery store, who seems like a breath of fresh air. Their chemistry appears electric, and Steve’s charm sweeps Noa off her feet.

However, as their whirlwind romance accelerates, a terrifying secret about Steve’s other “interests” comes to light, ultimately revealing that he possesses a rather sinister appetite. The film escalates through a blend of tension and dark humour, as Noa learns just how far Steve is willing to go for love—and how terribly wrong attraction can go. “Fresh” serves not only as a critique of dating ethics in the digital age but also presents a harrowing commentary on consumption, both metaphorical and literal.

Cast of Actors and Characters

  • Daisy Edgar-Jones as Noa
  • Sebastian Stan as Steve
  • Andrea Bang as Mollie, Noa’s friend
  • Charlotte Le Bon as Ann, one of Steve’s former lovers
  • Dayana Rivas as Celeste
  • Brittany O’Grady as a friend of Noa
  • Michael Matus as a man at a bar

Review

From the get-go, “Fresh” sets itself apart with an intriguing premise that fuses horror and satire, establishing a unique tone that is both playful and unsettling. The film opens with the familiar pangs of dating in the current era, presenting Noa’s struggles with the often superficial world of online dating. The script, co-written by Lauryn Kahn, cleverly critiques how technology has distorted the concept of genuine connections, using dark humour as a vehicle to navigate through highly charged themes such as trust, consent, and the idealism of romance in a consumer-driven society.

Edgar-Jones offers a compelling performance as Noa, beautifully balancing vulnerability and resilience. Her portrayal evokes empathy while also challenging viewers to question their assumptions about the typical romantic narrative. Her character’s journey resonates particularly in a time where narratives around female empowerment and autonomy in relationships are being re-examined.

Sebastian Stan’s portrayal of Steve presents a chilling inversion of the charming romantic lead trope. He embodies the character with an unsettling charisma that veers into predatory territory, providing a jarring juxtaposition to the idyllic moments shared with Noa. His performance is layered, at times disarming, reflecting the seductive surface of Steve before unearthing his deeply disturbing nature. Stan’s ability to oscillate between charming and sinister is a testament to his remarkable talent, making the audience question the nature of attraction itself.

The supporting cast in “Fresh” also shines, particularly Andrea Bang as Mollie, Noa’s close friend. Bang delivers a performance filled with warmth and fidelity, serving as Noa’s emotional anchor in a narrative rife with tension. The friendships presented in the film are not purely functional but are depicted in a way that highlights their essential role in combating the isolating effects of modern dating. The dynamics of these relationships provide a necessary counterbalance to the horrific aspects of the story, grounding the film’s theme in reality.

Visually, “Fresh” employs striking cinematography, taking advantage of vivid colours and clever framing to enhance the film’s unsettling atmosphere. The juxtaposition of dark comedic elements against horrifying imagery creates a unique viewing experience—one that oscillates between discomfort and absurdity. The direction by Cave is commendable, holding a steady pace that allows tension to build seamlessly while weaving in darkly comedic moments that punctuate the more chilling sequences. Cave’s ability to maintain this balance showcases her adeptness in navigating genre conventions, ensuring that “Fresh” feels both fresh and engaging.

The film’s score also contributes significantly to its impact, utilising an eclectic mix of upbeat and eerie sounds to underscore the narrative’s fluctuations. The soundtrack pulsates with energy during the romantic moments, only to shift drastically during sequences that reveal the darker truths about Steve. This clever use of music enhances the emotional engagement and amplifies the film’s central themes.

While the film excels in many areas, it does encounter some pacing issues, particularly in the latter half. As the plot thickens and the horror elements unfold, certain developments may come across as somewhat predictable, detracting slightly from the initially shocking premise. However, this does not diminish the stronger thematic messages that underpin the narrative.

“Fresh” is a compelling reflection on the dangers lurking beneath the surface of modern love. It cleverly weaves social commentary with visceral horror, raising questions about desire, possession, and the often-violent undercurrents of intimacy. In an age dominated by apps and superficial connections, Cave invites the audience to reflect on the complex web of human interaction through a lens that is both disturbing and darkly humorous.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “Fresh” is a daring film that captures the zeitgeist of contemporary dating while exploring deeper, often unsettling themes. With its compelling performances, particularly from Daisy Edgar-Jones and Sebastian Stan, the film strikes an intricate balance between dark comedy and horror, inviting viewers to grapple with the complexities of modern relationships. While it falters slightly in pacing towards the end, the film’s overall execution keeps audiences engaged and unsettled, making it a thought-provoking experience.

Rating: 8/10

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