Movie Review: Men (2022)
Synopsis:
"Men," directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Alex Garland, plunges viewers into a surreal and unsettling narrative that explores themes of grief, trauma, and the pervasive nature of misogyny. The film follows the harrowing journey of Harper (played by Jessie Buckley), a woman who retreats to the English countryside in the wake of her estranged husband’s tragic death. As she attempts to recover from her emotional scars, Harper encounters an array of strange characters in the local village, all portrayed by the same actor, Rory Kinnear. This uncanny phenomenon creates a disquieting atmosphere, leading Harper to confront not only the eccentricities of the inhabitants but also the darker undercurrents of her own psyche.
As the story unfolds, the picturesque landscape shifts from tranquil serenity to an oppressive, nightmarish reality. Harper’s interactions with the male villagers become increasingly bizarre and threatening, ultimately manifesting into a nightmarish climax. The film artfully blends psychological horror and body horror elements, underscoring the corrosive impact of patriarchal structures on women’s lives. With stunning cinematography by Rob Hardy and a haunting score by Ben Salisbury and Geoff Barrow, "Men" crafts an unsettling atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll.
Cast:
- Jessie Buckley as Harper
- Rory Kinnear as Geoffrey, and various other characters
- Paapa Essiedu as the Police Constable
- Gayle Rankin as the woman in the village
- Zachary Momoh as Harper’s husband
- Ruth Wilson as the mysterious figure
Review:
"Men" is a film that offers much more than meets the eye. It grapples with complex themes, examining not just the specific grief of Harper but also the broader societal frameworks that contribute to these personal and collective traumas. The narrative is relentless in its portrayal of male entitlement and aggression; it is a critique of how these elements manifest in everyday interactions, framing sexism in both overt and insidious ways.
Jessie Buckley delivers a gripping performance as Harper, embodying a character caught in the throes of trauma, fear, and isolation. Her emotional depth resonates throughout the film, pulling the audience into her struggle for autonomy and peace. Buckley’s ability to convey vulnerability while confronting the ominous threats around her captures the essence of a woman striving to reclaim her narrative in a world that seems hell-bent on robbing her of it.
Rory Kinnear’s performance deserves special mention, as he takes on multiple roles, seamlessly transitioning from the benign and chatty Geoffrey to the more sinister manifestations of masculinity embodied by the villagers. This multiplicity creates an unsettling dynamic, reinforcing the idea that these various masculinities are all facets of a larger, toxic patriarchal identity. His performances provoke a visceral reaction, showcasing a spectrum of male behaviour that ranges from charming to predatory, forcing the audience to confront their own complicity in such societal issues.
Garland’s direction is sharp and deliberate, weaving visual storytelling with thematic substance. The cinematography by Rob Hardy is particularly noteworthy; it presents the English countryside not just as a serene backdrop but as a character in itself. The verdant landscapes slowly morph into a claustrophobic nightmare, reflecting Harper’s growing sense of entrapment. The use of light and shadow heightens the tension, making every frame charged with emotional significance.
The film’s pacing might challenge some viewers, oscillating between moments of quiet introspection and sudden bursts of horror. However, this unpredictability serves to mirror Harper’s own jumbled mental state, leaving the audience feeling as disoriented as she is. The surrealistic elements sprinkled throughout the film magnify its thematic depth. One memorable sequence features grotesque representations of masculinity in a culminating act of body horror, acting as a jarring commentary on the cycle of patriarchy and its repercussions.
"Men" also excels in its sound design, with the score enhancing its unsettling atmosphere. The collaboration between Salisbury and Barrow is hauntingly effective, utilising jarring sounds that create an almost palpable tension. This soundscape underscores Harper’s emotional disarray and isolation, immersing the audience in her world of fear and anxiety.
The film is not without its critics, many of whom argue that Garland’s ambitious themes sometimes lead to muddled messaging. Some viewers may feel that the film veers towards abstraction, prioritising metaphor over clarity. The final act, filled with symbolism and visceral imagery, is open to interpretation, and whether this ambiguity is a strength or a weakness may depend on the perspective of the viewer.
Yet, such complexities are part and parcel of Garland’s cinematic philosophy. He has a penchant for merging high-concept narratives with deeply personal stories, and "Men" fits squarely within that paradigm. It fosters discussions around gender, trauma, and societal structures, inviting audiences to reflect on their own experiences and perceptions.
In conclusion, "Men" is a provocative, haunting examination of modern masculinity and the insidious nature of trauma. With standout performances from Jessie Buckley and Rory Kinnear, combined with Garland’s distinctive directing style, the film rises to the occasion, tackling challenging themes with a bold visual language. While its abstract nature may perplex some viewers, it undeniably leaves a mark, making it a worthy addition to the genre of psychological horror. Ultimately, "Men" challenges audiences to grapple with uncomfortable truths about gender dynamics, urging a collective reckoning with the toxic elements of society.
Score: 8.5/10.
