Movie Review: Hatching (2022)
Synopsis
"Hatching" is a darkly imaginative Finnish horror film that dives into the complexities of adolescence and the relationships between mothers and daughters. The story revolves around Tinja, a young girl who yearns for her mother’s approval and attention in an environment dominated by social media ideals and competitive perfectionism. Tinja’s mother, a perfectionist and influencer, is obsessed with showcasing their seemingly flawless family life through her vlogs. When Tinja discovers an unusual egg in the woods, she decides to secretly nurture it. To her astonishment, the egg hatches into a strange, monstrous creature that begins to reflect Tinja’s own turmoil, insecurities, and desires.
As the creature grows, it mirrors Tinja’s suppressed emotions, often taking on a more aggressive and violent persona than the girl herself. This burgeoning bond between Tinja and the creature becomes a catalyst for her internal struggles, leading her to confront the oppressive nature of her mother’s expectations and her own identity. The film artfully juxtaposes themes of motherhood, the weight of societal assumptions, and the journey of self-discovery with horror elements that are both unsettling and thought-provoking.
Cast of Characters
- Siiri Solalinna as Tinja
- Sophia Heikkilä as Tinja’s Mother
- Jani Volanen as Tinja’s Father
- Rea Mauranen as the Creature
- Mikael Makkonen as Tinja’s Classmate
Review
"Hatching" is a film that cleverly fuses horror with poignant social commentary, focusing on the pressures faced by young women in a digital age. Right from the opening scenes, the striking visual aesthetics jump out at the audience, with beautifully choreographed shots that deceptively hint at the idyllic family life. However, it becomes evident that beneath this shiny surface lies a darker narrative exploring themes of control, transformation, and independence.
The film’s cinematography plays a pivotal role in developing its atmosphere. The contrasts between the sunny vistas of the Finnish landscape and the ominous, shadow-filled moments when Tinja is alone with the creature highlight the duality of her existence. This tension is mirrored in Tinja’s relationship with her mother, who lavishes attention on the perfect image of familial life while neglecting the emotional needs of her daughter. Tinja is left grappling with the disconnect, an inability to express herself authentically.
Siiri Solalinna delivers a stunning performance as Tinja. She beautifully captures the innocence and vulnerability of adolescence, making her journey of self-discovery all the more relatable. As she becomes more involved with the creature, Solalinna adeptly navigates the emotional spectrum, portraying frustration, fear, and an emerging strength. Her chemistry with the creature is particularly noteworthy; it becomes a physical embodiment of her inner turmoil, representing not only her desires but also her growing defiance against the suffocating ideals imposed upon her.
Sophia Heikkilä shines as Tinja’s mother, exhibiting a chilling yet captivating performance that speaks volumes about the complexities of maternal relationships. Her character encapsulates the societal pressures that can sometimes corrupt parental love, leading to toxic behaviours. Heikkilä’s ability to oscillate between warmth and coldness establishes the character’s multifaceted nature, keeping the audience engaged while contemplating her motivations.
One of the most delightful aspects of "Hatching" is its deft handling of symbolism. The egg and the creature serve as powerful metaphors for Tinja’s struggle against the constraints placed upon her. The aggressive tendencies exhibited by the creature can be interpreted as a physical manifestation of Tinja’s repressed anger and resentment, reflecting her desire to break free from her mother’s shadow. As the storyline unfolds, the creature evolves into a darker embodiment of Tinja’s psyche, offering a thrilling exploration of the psychological horror genre.
While the film excels in establishing an unsettling atmosphere, it’s particularly praiseworthy for its minimal use of overt jump scares typical of the genre. Instead, "Hatching" opts for a slow build-up of tension and dread, creating a persistent unease that lingers after the credits roll. The score complements this ambiance, accentuating the emotional depth and unease in moments that would otherwise feel routine.
The pacing of the film is well-crafted, allowing for moments of introspection that enhance the character development, especially Tinja’s transformation. The gradual escalation of the bond between Tinja and her creature leads to pivotal moments that are both shocking and impactful. The third act, however, may prove somewhat divisive for audiences; while it attempts to deliver a stark commentary on the consequences of sublimated emotions and adherence to external validation, some viewers might find the climax rushed or open to interpretation.
One of the film’s limitations lies in its reliance on certain genre clichés, which, although effective, do not entirely break new ground within the horror landscape. This is especially evident as the creature’s evolution becomes clearer. While the blend of body horror and psychological thriller is engaging, it sometimes veers towards predictability, occasionally undermining the film’s innovative premise.
Despite this, "Hatching" ultimately serves as a multifaceted exploration of the struggles faced by girls in a hyper-connected digital world. The themes of self-identity, independence, and the yearning for maternal approval resonate deeply, making the horror elements all the more impactful. In an era where social media amplifies insecurities, Tinja’s journey feels especially relevant and important.
The cinematography, performances, and underlying themes all work harmoniously to create a film that is more than just a modern horror tale; it is a cautionary tale about the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity. Tinja’s realisation that her worth does not hinge on her mother’s approval is a powerful message that lingers.
Conclusion
"Hatching" is a masterful blend of psychological horror and a coming-of-age story, artfully showcasing the tumultuous journey of adolescence against the backdrop of familial expectations. With striking visuals and compelling performances, particularly from Siiri Solalinna and Sophia Heikkilä, the film successfully engages the audience on both emotional and visceral levels. While it bears some genre conventions, its exploration of identity and motherhood renders it particularly resonant.
Overall, I would rate "Hatching" an 8 out of 10. Its unique storytelling, coupled with a bold aesthetic and sobering themes, make it a standout entry in contemporary horror cinema, sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
