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Horripilations Review of The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)

Movie Review: The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)

Synopsis

"The Autopsy of Jane Doe" is a chilling horror film directed by André Øvredal released in 2016. The narrative unfolds in a small-town morgue where father-and-son coroners, Tommy and Austin Tilden, are called in to investigate a mysterious body that has been discovered at a local crime scene. The body, a young woman who remains unidentified, is soon revealed to be a fatal enigma—one that will hold more secrets than they could fathom.

As the autopsy progresses, strange and supernatural phenomena begin to plague the morgue. Each incision reveals horrifying signs of trauma that suggest the woman endured a violent and traumatic death. What starts as a routine examination quickly spirals into a nightmarish ordeal as the coroner duo discovers that the Jane Doe, despite her lifeless state, appears to be deeply connected to a series of sinister events. As night falls, the onslaught of paranormal occurrences intensifies, leading Tommy and Austin into a harrowing confrontation with an inexplicable evil that threatens not only their lives but also their understanding of reality itself.

"The Autopsy of Jane Doe" intertwines elements of a psychological thriller with the classic horror genre, exemplifying the struggle between science and the supernatural. Compelling performances, an eerie atmosphere, and an unsettling climax all contribute to making this film a noteworthy entry into the realm of contemporary horror.

Actors and Characters

  • Brian Cox as Tommy Tilden: The seasoned coroner and father figure, who is both rational and deeply sceptical of the supernatural.
  • Emile Hirsch as Austin Tilden: Tommy’s son, who balances his respect for his father’s work with a curiosity about the unknown.
  • Olwen Catherine Kelly as Jane Doe: The mysterious corpse around whom the entire narrative revolves, whose silence speaks volumes as layers of her story unfold.
  • Michael McElhatton as Sheriff: The local sheriff who brings Jane Doe to the Tildens for examination, hinting at the town’s dark undercurrents.
  • Gemma Jones as Margo Tilden: The Tildens’ matriarch, who provides a contrasting emotional backbone to the male-dominated story.

Review

"The Autopsy of Jane Doe" impressively melds the thriller and horror genres, keeping audiences entranced from start to finish. It benefits from a tight script co-written by Øvredal and Ian B. Goldberg, which maintains a careful pace that unveils its layers incrementally. The film’s premise is deceptively simple—an autopsy turns chilling—but it evolves into an intricate exploration of mortality, grief, and the inexplicable phenomena that blur the lines of life and death.

At the heart of the film lies the strong relationship between Tommy and Austin. Their dynamic allows for both tension and empathy, counterbalancing the dread that envelopes the morgue. Brian Cox delivers a powerful performance as Tommy, a character whose stoicism is tested in the face of unimaginable horrors. As a coroner, he is accustomed to decay and death but is gradually confronted by a force that transcends his scientific understanding. Emile Hirsch’s portrayal of Austin adds a layer of vulnerability, embodying the curiosity that drives the narrative forward. Their performances anchor the film, making the unfolding terror all the more impactful.

One of the most commendable aspects of "The Autopsy of Jane Doe" is its atmospheric tension. The film is punctuated by a foreboding score, designed by Michael M. Herring, that seamlessly interweaves with the sounds of the morgue—an echoing heartbeat, the eerie silence, and the unsettling sounds associated with the autopsy process. The dimly lit corridors and clinical environment contribute to an oppressive atmosphere that amplifies the horror. Cinematographer Roman Osin’s careful composition reflects the claustrophobia of the setting, allowing for minimal external distractions while focusing the audience’s attention on the unfolding drama within.

Moreover, the film artfully balances gore with psychological horror. While there are certainly moments of blood and violence, they are not the sole focus. Instead, the dread that permeates "The Autopsy of Jane Doe" builds slowly, making the audience question the nature of evil and its unsettling manifestation in the world. In doing so, it deftly explores themes of loss, the unknown, and the lengths to which humanity will go to confront its fears.

The character of Jane Doe, though physically absent for much of the film, serves as a powerful narrative device—a symbol of unanswered questions and the dark tales that haunt every community. Olwen Catherine Kelly’s performance is captivating; her stillness and the way she embodies the curse of her past evoke a blend of sympathy and terror. As the autopsy reveals horrifying truths about Jane’s life and death, the film critiques the very nature of understanding mortality, forcing both characters and viewers to confront what remains unseen.

While the film is largely successful, it is worth noting that the climax, while filled with tension, teeters on the edge of typical horror tropes. The resolution unfolds in an almost predictably sinister manner—a conclusion that provides closure but leaves more questions than answers. It may be perceived as a double-edged sword; on one hand, it allows for an engaging finale, while on the other, it sometimes falls into clichés that may leave seasoned horror fans slightly underwhelmed.

Nevertheless, "The Autopsy of Jane Doe" sets itself apart through its focus on character development, strong performances, and a thought-provoking exploration of the unknown. The film lingers in one’s mind long after viewing, prompting deeper reflections on mortality and the myriad mysteries that underpin life and death.

Conclusion

"The Autopsy of Jane Doe" is an exceptional piece of horror cinema that deftly blends psychological terror with supernatural lore, all while maintaining strong character dynamics and a compelling narrative. Bridging the gap between the seen and the unseen, it prompts the audience to reflect on their own fears surrounding death and what lies beyond. With standout performances, an immersive atmosphere, and a haunting premise, the film asserts itself as a modern classic in the genre.

Score: 8.5/10

Overall, André Øvredal’s film serves as a masterclass in building suspense and weaving storytelling with profound themes, continuing to resonate within the realm of horror long after the credits roll.

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