Movie Review of Skinamarink (2022)
Synopsis
Skinamarink is a surreal horror film that explores the psychological turmoil of childhood fears and the sensations of isolation. The narrative revolves around two young siblings, Kevin and Kaylee, who wake up in their home to discover that their father has disappeared. As the night unfolds, they soon realise that their mother is also missing, and the boundaries between reality and nightmare begin to blur. The house morphs into a labyrinthine prison of darkness as they find themselves unable to escape—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Strange voices echo in the shadows, doors vanish from their hinges, and windows dissolve into nothingness, leaving the children to grapple with the enigma of their vanishing parents and an inexplicable malevolence that lurks within the walls of their home. The film employs atmospheric visuals and minimalist dialogue to twist the ordinary into something utterly disconcerting, creating an experience that unsettles even as it captivates.
Cast
- Losirene K. as Kaylee
- Ross Paul as Kevin
- Amanda Grace as the Mother
- Daniel H. as the Father
- T. G. as the Voice
Review
At first glance, Skinamarink appears to usher in a new era of experimental horror, notably steering away from the conventional tropes that many viewers have come to expect from the genre. Directed by Kyle Edward Ball, the film is a low-budget, atmospheric offering that utilises a distinctively minimalist aesthetic to cultivate its tension and terror. This is a film that pushes the boundaries of traditional storytelling, relying heavily on visual motifs and a soundscape that vibrates with disquietude rather than relying on dialogue or a clearly delineated plot.
Ball’s avant-garde approach is immediately evident through the disorienting cinematography. The film is shot primarily from ground level, providing the perspective of children who view the world from a much shorter stature. This choice not only enhances the feelings of vulnerability and helplessness endemic to childhood but also imbues the surroundings with a strange, claustrophobic quality. Rooms that should feel safe and familiar become suffocating enigmas filled with lurking dread.
The sound design augments this further; the film is interspersed with prolonged silences punctuated by muted whispers and eerie noises, creating a backdrop that allows the viewer to constantly feel on edge. Children’s laughter echoes in ghostly tones, heightening the unsettling atmosphere, reminding us that childhood can often be intertwined with both innocence and fear. The absence of adult figures in what is ostensibly a family home serves as a metaphor for the anxiety of abandonment and the dangers of a world unfiltered through adult perceptions.
The performances by the children, particularly Losirene K. as Kaylee and Ross Paul as Kevin, are hauntingly effective in their simplicity. Their reactions to the inexplicable events taking place in their home evoke genuine feelings of confusion and despair, reminiscent of how children might interpret a world filled with unexplainable fears. The depth of their performances lies not in grand gestures but in subtle expressions that convey profound emotional weight.
Thematically, Skinamarink resonates with primordial fears—fear of the dark, fear of abandonment, and the loss of control inherent in adolescence. As night descends, the house transforms, merging with the bleakness of the children’s anxious minds. The film delves into the idea of childhood trauma and the monstrous nature of one’s imagination, becoming a reflection on how fear can warp reality. The narrative unfolds in a way that allows the audience to engage with the characters’ experiences—each creak of the floorboards and flicker of the lights heightens the anxiety, compelling viewers to confront their own fears.
However, the avant-garde style of Skinamarink will likely divide audiences. While some may applaud the film for its boldness and originality, others may find it inaccessible or overly abstract. The sporadic, non-linear storytelling can feel disjointed, with several moments that may be interpreted as tedious rather than terrifying. The reliance on ambiguity brings an element of elegance but could also discourage viewers who favour traditional storytelling structures.
The absence of character development can leave some feeling adrift. The children remain archetypical, serving more as vessels for exploring the film’s concepts rather than fleshed-out individuals with detailed backstories. This choice may alienate viewers who seek a deeper emotional connection with the characters. However, in a way, that is precisely Ball’s intention: the film is less about who the characters are and more about what they represent—the inescapable nature of fear, the fragility of relationships, and the haunting impacts of childhood trauma.
The pacing of the film reflects a slow burn; it challenges the audience’s patience, unfurling its terror gradually. For some, this slow reveal will cultivate a palpable tension, as each moment stretches out, embedding itself into the viewer’s consciousness. Others, however, may find themselves longing for the payoff that never comes, leading to a sense of frustration rather than fear.
While Skinamarink will likely not hold universal appeal due to its unconventional form, it carves a distinctive niche within modern horror. It invites viewers to embrace their primal fears and venture into the vast unknown of the human psyche. The film’s refusal to provide clear answers or resolutions may leave some disoriented, but therein lies the beauty of its artistry: it encapsulates the essence of terror as something intangible and elusive.
In conclusion, Skinamarink transcends the boundaries of traditional horror, immersing its audience in a nightmarish world where childhood fears reign supreme. The director’s astute use of sound and unsettling imagery crafts a surreal experience that lingers long after the credits roll. If you are bold enough to engage with horror in a way that is both poetic and haunting, then Skinamarink may just be the film for you. While it may not cater to everyone’s tastes, its daring originality cements it as a noteworthy entry into the genre.
Score: 8/10
