Movie Review: Sissy (2022)
Synopsis
Sissy, directed by Hannah Barlow and Kane Senes, is a dark, humorous psychological thriller that intertwines themes of friendship, trauma, and the perils of social media. It follows Cecilia (Aussie comedian Aisha Dee), a social media influencer who has maintained a seemingly perfect online life. When she attends the hen weekend of her childhood friend Emma (Hannah Barlow) at a remote Airbnb, the idyllic façade begins to crack, and unresolved issues from the past come bubbling to the surface.
As the weekend progresses, the dynamic shifts within the group, especially with Abigail (Emily De Margheriti), Emma’s other friend, who harbours an intense jealousy towards Cecilia and her social media presence. Tension rises as old wounds are reopened, leading to a harrowing confrontation that pits the idea of online persona against reality. The film cleverly explores the impact of the digital age on personal relationships while crafting a thrilling narrative filled with unexpected twists and a unique blend of horror and comedy.
List of Actors and Their Characters
- Aisha Dee as Cecilia/Cee
- Hannah Barlow as Emma
- Emily De Margheriti as Abigail
- Luke McKenzie as the Deathly/Devil (cameo)
- David Hargreaves as Owen
- Katrina Milosevic as Lila
- George Pullar as a minor character
Review
Sissy begins with a vibrant, aesthetically pleasing montage of Cecilia’s life as an influencer, masterfully juxtaposed against the stark reality of the upcoming hen party. The opening scenes cleverly set the stage for a deep dive into the dark underbelly of social media culture. It immediately draws viewers in with its vibrant colours and catchy soundtracks, establishing the film as a sharp commentary on online validation and the often superficial nature of influencer culture.
Aisha Dee delivers a compelling performance as Cecilia, capturing her charm, insecurities, and the fierce need for acceptance. Dee transforms the character from seemingly bubbly and confident to someone who is vulnerable and unsure when faced with the weight of her past. The tension between Cecilia and Abigail forms the backbone of the narrative, with their contrasting personalities heightening the stakes. Abigail, expertly portrayed by Emily De Margheriti, embodies the envious, resentful friend archetype, bringing an intense and unpredictable energy that heightens the film’s tension.
The setting of the hen party contributes significantly to the film’s atmospheric tension. The isolated Airbnb, surrounded by dense woods, evokes a sense of claustrophobia, making every moment feel charged with potential danger. The filmmakers use this setting to great effect, combining elements of horror with comedic undertones. The humour is often dark, rooted in the absurdity of the situations the group faces, ensuring that while the film confronts serious themes, it does so with a tongue-in-cheek sensibility.
As the weekend progresses, Sissy delves into the notion of toxic friendships and the sometimes predatory nature of social media. The film effectively dissects how the digital persona can put strain on real-life relationships, leading to jealousy and betrayal—an all-too-familiar dynamic for many in the influencer space. It’s this nuanced exploration of interpersonal relationships that elevates the film beyond standard horror fare.
One particularly striking aspect of the film is its use of social media within the narrative. The characters often find themselves engrossed in their phones, capturing moments for their feeds, which serves as a metaphor for the disconnection fostered by modern technology. The film does not shy away from scrutinising the impact of likes and followers on self-worth, presenting a formidable critique on contemporary society.
The film’s pacing is well-structured, maintaining a balance between humour and horror that keeps the audience engaged. The tension escalates steadily, culminating in a climax that is both shocking and disturbingly satisfying. While the first half primarily focuses on character development and tension-building, the final act plunges into chaos, peppered with darkly comic moments that evoke both laughter and horror. It’s a testament to the filmmakers’ skill in maintaining a strong narrative arc while weaving in varied tonal shifts.
However, Sissy does encounter a few pitfalls typical of the genre. While the film tackles its themes with sensitivity and humour, some viewers might find the character arcs somewhat predictable. Furthermore, at times, the film leans heavily into genre tropes that may detract from its otherwise fresh perspective. The last act, while entertaining, contains moments that require a suspension of disbelief that could be challenging for some viewers.
Cinematographically, the film shines with its vivid visuals and sharp editing. The cinematography captures both the beauty of the Australian landscape and the eerie isolation of the Airbnb setting, enhancing the sense of entrapment. The sharp transitions and clever use of angles serve to create tension and unease, further immersing the audience in the characters’ experiences.
The score by the film’s composers adds another layer to the viewing experience. With a blend of eerie soundscapes and upbeat tracks that juxtapose the film’s comedic moments, the music elevates the emotional impact of pivotal scenes while heightening the suspense during critical moments.
At its core, Sissy is ultimately a cautionary tale about the perils of living for online approval and the complexities of maintaining friendships in an age dominated by social media. It reminds viewers of the darkness that can lurk beneath a curated online life. Through its biting humour and sharp commentary, the film poses the question: how well do you really know your friends?
Conclusion
Sissy is a refreshing addition to the horror-comedy genre that successfully intertwines genuine social commentary with dark humour and thrilling moments. It invites the audience to reflect on the toxicities of digital life while delivering a captivating narrative filled with engaging characters and unforeseen twists. With strong performances, particularly from Aisha Dee and Emily De Margheriti, as well as an astute directorial vision, Sissy manages to both entertain and provoke thought.
For those looking for a film that artfully blends laughter with dread, wrapped in a commentary on contemporary social issues, Sissy should definitely find a place on your watchlist.
Score: 8/10
