The realm of psychological horror, “Never Let Go” (2024) emerges as a film that intertwines maternal devotion with the haunting specter of unseen evil. Directed by Alexandre Aja, known for his work on “Crawl” and “The Hills Have Eyes,” this film attempts to delve deep into the psyche of a mother determined to protect her children at all costs.

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Plot Overview

Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the narrative follows Momma (Halle Berry) and her twin sons, Nolan (Percy Daggs IV) and Samuel (Anthony B. Jenkins), as they reside in an isolated cabin amidst a dense forest. To safeguard themselves from a pervasive malevolent force referred to as “The Evil,” they adhere to strict rituals: remaining tethered to their home via ropes and reciting daily prayers. The tension escalates as Nolan begins to question the reality of the external threat, leading to a rift within the family and a series of events that blur the lines between reality and delusion .

Performances

Halle Berry delivers a compelling performance as Momma, portraying a character teetering between protective maternal instincts and potential madness. Her portrayal captures the essence of a mother driven to extremes by fear and love. Percy Daggs IV and Anthony B. Jenkins, as Nolan and Samuel respectively, bring authenticity to their roles, effectively conveying the innocence and confusion of children caught in an incomprehensible situation .

Direction and Cinematography

Aja’s direction is marked by a keen eye for atmospheric tension. The cinematography by Maxime Alexandre enhances the film’s claustrophobic ambiance, with the forest and cabin settings amplifying the sense of isolation and dread. The use of lighting and shadow plays a crucial role in maintaining suspense throughout the film .

Themes and Symbolism

“Never Let Go” explores themes of maternal protection, psychological trauma, and the ambiguity of perceived reality. The ropes symbolize both physical safety and emotional bonds, while the unseen Evil represents internal demons and unresolved past traumas. The film raises questions about the reliability of perception and the extent to which fear can distort reality .

Critique

While the film excels in building a haunting atmosphere and delivering strong performances, it falters in its narrative execution. The pacing is uneven, with a slow buildup that may test the patience of some viewers. The ambiguity surrounding the existence of the Evil, while initially intriguing, becomes a source of frustration due to a lack of resolution. Additionally, the film’s attempt to balance psychological horror with supernatural elements leads to a convoluted storyline that doesn’t fully satisfy either genre’s enthusiasts .

Conclusion

“Never Let Go” presents a thought-provoking premise and showcases commendable performances, particularly from Halle Berry. Its atmospheric tension and exploration of psychological themes offer moments of genuine suspense. However, the film’s narrative shortcomings and lack of clarity in its thematic execution prevent it from reaching its full potential. For viewers seeking a psychological horror that delves into the complexities of fear and maternal instinct, “Never Let Go” offers a compelling, albeit imperfect, cinematic experience.