Movie Review: The Sadness (2021)
Synopsis
Directed by Rob Jabbaz, The Sadness is a horror-thriller that transports viewers to a dystopian world ravaged by a mysterious virus that transforms ordinary people into grotesquely violent beings. The film is set in Taiwan, where the contagion begins to spread rapidly, leading to chaos in the streets. At the centre of the narrative are two protagonists, Jim and Cat, a couple separated amidst the pandemonium. As their city descends into an abyss of madness and brutality, they navigate a nightmarish landscape filled with gore and surreal horrors in a desperate bid to find each other.
The film opens with a disquieting portrayal of everyday life disrupted by the onset of the “Sadness,” a virus that amplifies human emotions to deadly extremes. Those infected become sadistic, driven by primal urges and a lust for violence. The gritty cinematography captures the intensity of the situation, setting the tone for a relentless exploration of humanity stripped of its veneer of civility. As the couple traverses a city transformed into a war zone, they encounter unthinkable horrors—friends turned foes, strangers in a search for salvation, and various persons driven to madness. The narrative weaves a heartbreaking tale of love and resilience against a backdrop of sheer terror, raising unsettling questions about morality, sanity, and survival.
Cast
- Berant Zhu as Jim
- Regina Orozco as Cat
- Tzu-Chuan Liu as the shopkeeper
- Alyssa Chia as the infected woman
- Kuan-Ting Liu as a riot participant
- Cai Shung-Ying as the police officer
- Andrew Kwan as the father
Review
The Sadness is not merely a horror film; it is a profound exploration of the human condition when stripped of its societal constructs. The film’s premise bears the hallmarks of classic zombie narratives but twists this formula into an original exploration of psychological terror and emotional degeneration. The opening scenes quickly establish the disturbing atmosphere, with a montage of normalcy disrupted by sporadic bursts of violence.
From the start, the cinematography captivates the viewer; Jabbaz employs claustrophobic framing and handheld camera work to create tension and a sense of urgency. The utilisation of unsettling aesthetics—gritty visuals that evoke feelings of dread and unpredictability—immerses the audience in the film’s dystopian setting. Each frame is drenched in a sense of foreboding, giving the viewer no respite from the ever-present threat of violence.
A significant strength of The Sadness is its commitment to unflinching horror. The visceral depiction of gore and suffering is unabashed, and the film does not shy away from showing the brutality of the human condition as characters grapple with despair. Scenes of violence serve not merely as shock value, but as a commentary on the thin veneer of civility that can quickly dissolve in the face of desperation. The film’s excesses, though at times extreme, underline the chaos that unfolds in a society losing its grip.
The performances of the lead actors, Berant Zhu and Regina Orozco, anchor the film amidst its chaos. Zhu’s portrayal of Jim is deeply affecting; his character embodies the struggle for survival and hope in a world that seems devoid of both. Orozco’s Cat, meanwhile, transforms throughout the narrative, moving from an everywoman figure into a conduit of raw, emotional force. The chemistry between the couple creates a poignant contrast to the horrors around them; their plight becomes increasingly relatable even in such surreal circumstances. The dynamic of their relationship—marked by both tenderness and desperation—crafts an emotional core that resonates strongly.
In contrast, the secondary characters offer a chilling glimpse into society’s decay, portraying the extremes of human nature when pushed to its limits. The infected individuals, yearning for violence and chaos, exemplify the horror’s omnipresence. Jabbaz’s careful attention to the characterisation of these figures elevates them from mere antagonists to tragic representations of the loss of humanity. The store owner, played by Tzu-Chuan Liu, exemplifies this descent, showing flickers of his former self even as he succumbs to madness.
The film does an exceptional job of balancing action and psychological horror. It captivates audiences with thrilling chase sequences while simultaneously delving into the emotional gravitas of Jim and Cat’s journey. Scenes of frenetic violence are punctuated with quiet moments that allow viewers to breathe and ponder the nature of fears and the fragility of human relationships. The pacing is masterfully controlled, escalating towards a heart-pounding climax that paints a grim picture of the world, reinforcing the themes of despair that permeate the film.
A crucial aspect of the film is its commentary on societal breakdown. Jabbaz cleverly mirrors the chaos ensuing from an outbreak with issues facing contemporary society—rising tensions, anger, and the itch of collective unrest. The fraying fabric of society amid the pandemic metaphorically resonates with a world dealing with various crises. The virus serves as a stark reminder of our humanity’s fragility, raising pressing questions about what lies beneath our calm exteriors.
In terms of sound design, The Sadness excels as well. The soundscape varies from subtle sonic cues that build tension to ear-piercing shrieks of horror. The score complements the oppressive atmosphere, amplifying the viewer’s unease throughout the film. These elements coalesce to create an engaging sensory experience where the audience is enveloped in the fear portrayed on screen.
However, it is worth noting that its commitment to unrelenting horror might alienate some viewers. The graphic nature of violence and broad themes of despair may not sit well with audiences who prefer reserved thrills over visceral depictions. The film demands emotional and psychological investment, creating a divide in its reception.
The Sadness is not just another addition to the zombie genre; it is an exploration of love, survival, and the human spirit amidst a backdrop of chaos. Jabbaz defiantly pushes boundaries, challenging viewers to reckon with their comfort levels in horror. The film ultimately leaves a lasting impression, lingering in one’s thoughts long after the credits roll. It is a brutal, challenging commentary on the nature of humanity, and whilst it doesn’t offer rehabilitation to its characters or society, it provides a haunting reflection on the depths to which humanity can sink.
Conclusion
The Sadness is a thought-provoking and harrowing film that excels in its unyielding portrayal of terror, combined with a gripping narrative of love and survival. Its artful cinematography, powerful performances, and biting commentary on the human condition create a rich tapestry that rewards viewers willing to confront their fears. While it may alienate some with its graphic depictions, it undeniably succeeds in crafting a vital piece of cinema that resonates deeply in our current societal climate.
Score: 8.5/10
